Compression Molding of Low-Density Polyethylene Matrix/Glass-Fiber-Reinforced Thick Laminates

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Engineering
• Composite Materials

Background:

• Developing sustainable composite materials is crucial for reducing waste.
• Thermoplastic composites offer potential for recycling and repairability.
• Traditional fiberglass composites often lack efficient repair mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a recyclable thermoplastic composite from waste glass fibers.
• To investigate the repairability and mechanical properties of the developed composite.
• To adapt a compression molding technique for efficient composite fabrication.

Main Methods:

• Compression molding of thermoplastic fiberglass panels (10 mm thickness, 300x300 mm).
• Utilizing waste glass fibers, fabrics, and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) as matrix.
• Designing and conducting a bending test to evaluate repairability over three cycles.

Main Results:

• The thermoplastic composite exhibited improved performance with repeated repair cycles.
• Static mechanical properties (strength <10 MPa, modulus <1 GPa) were lower than traditional fiberglass due to the LDPE matrix.
• The composite demonstrated high toughness, deforming significantly without fracture.

Conclusions:

• A simplified, recyclable thermoplastic composite fabrication method was established.
• The developed material shows promising repairability, outperforming traditional composites in this aspect.
• While static strength is limited by the matrix, the composite's toughness and recyclability offer significant advantages.