Development, characteristics, and potential applications of green composites from bio-derived polybenzoxazine and glass fiber

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to develop green composites prepared from bio-derived polybenzoxazine (PBz) and glass fiber (GF). The effects of GF contents (22.7, 30.6, 39.8, 50.7, and 63.8 vol%) on mechanical, thermal and surface properties, self-healing behavior and UV-protection property were evaluated. Flexural properties, thermal stability and flame resistant of the composite samples was substantially improved by the presence of GFs, while the thermal expansion and water contact angle was progressively reduced with the GF content. The self-healing efficiency assessed through self-healing percentage under flexure content confirm that the composite samples showed good self-healing performance with the self-healing percentage within 59.5–83.8. In addition, reinforcing GF also exhibits an enhanced ultraviolet shielding efficiency of the composite samples closed to 100%. Based on the composite's mechanical and thermal properties, self-healing efficiency, flame resistant and UV-protection property, its potential usage is suggested in advanced application such as structural materials with associated requirements of significant self-healing, self-extinguishing and ultraviolet-shielding property. Highlights: Green GF/bio-derived polybenzoxazine composites was successfully developed. The GF/poly(E-fa) composite showed substantial self-healing performance. LOI values of the composite were suitable for self-extinguishing materials. The reinforcement with GF into composites improved comprehensive properties. The composite represents a promising new candidate for structural materials.