Abstract: This paper deals with the evaluation of flow properties
of polymeric matrix with natural animal fillers. Technical university
of Liberec cooperates on the long-term development of “green
materials“ that should replace conventionally used materials
(especially in automotive industry). Natural fibres (of animal and
plant origin) from all over the world are collected and adapted
(drying, cutting etc.) for extrusion processing. Inside the extruder
these natural additives are blended with polymeric (synthetic and
biodegradable - PLA) matrix and created compound is subsequently
cut for pellets in the wet way. These green materials with unique
recipes are then studied and their mechanical, physical and
processing properties are determined. The main goal of this research
is to develop new ecological materials very similar to unfilled
polymers. In this article the rheological behaviour of chosen natural
animal fibres is introduced considering their shape and surface that
were observed with use of SEM microscopy.
Abstract: Conventional materials like glass, wood or metals
replacement with polymer materials is still continuing. More simple
thus cheaper production is the main reason. However due to high
energy and petrochemical prices are polymer prices increasing too.
That´s why various kinds of fillers are used to make polymers
cheaper. Of course target is to maintain or improve properties of
these compounds. In this paper are solved rheology issues of
polymers compounded with vegetal origin fibers.