Flammability Characteristics of Waste-Based Fibre-Reinforced Composite Using Palmyra Fibre and Waste Polythene

Abstract:

This study investigates the flammability characteristics of composites developed from waste materials, notably integrating Palmyra fibre and waste LDPE. The research systematically assessed the flammability properties of Palmyra Fibre-Reinforced Composites (PFRCs) across seventeen distinct variations. PFRCs were synthesized employing a variety of techniques, including the hot-press method, the cold-press method, and the hand lay-up method. The analysis spanned various dimensions such as the treatment condition of the fibres, fibre lengths, volume fractions, and orientation, aiming to evaluate their impact on the composite's flammability properties comprehensively. Among the variations considered, 40 mm length alkali-treated fibre with 20% (w/w) inclusion in random orientation provided the best overall density and flammability characteristics. The results highlight the capability of Palmyra fibre to serve as an effective alternative for reinforcing composite sheets. The research indicates that these materials demonstrate not only favourable density and improved resistance to fire but also add to the overall durability and wider usage possibilities of the composites. Together, these findings emphasise the field of sustainable and alternative materials research, emphasizing the practicality of utilizing waste-derived composites in a range of applications.

• Periodical: Advances in Science and Technology (Volume 177)
• Pages: 101-114
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-q5tVmS
• Online since: May 2026
• Authors: P. C. M. Wijesena, D. M. S. M. Karunarathna, H. M. C. C. Somarathna*, S. Kishotharan
• Keywords: Flammability, Palmyra Fibre, Waste Polythene, Waste-Based Fibre-Reinforced Composite

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