Investigation of influence of chemical remediation on the mechanical and thermal properties of banana fiber reinforced polyoxymethylene composites

Today, it is of great importance to reuse waste materials and to develop alternative products in this way. At this point, it is necessary to develop materials that can meet human needs by using the developing technology, without harming the nature we live in. The production of reinforcing materials such as petroleum-based and glass fiber causes a significant amount of greenhouse gases to be released into the atmosphere. The use of environmentally friendly green materials, which are recyclable, biodegradable and renewable, has recently been considered to reduce the environmental impact of petroleum-based materials. This type of composite materials can be disposed of at the end of their life without harming the environment. The use of natural fibers as reinforcement and filling material in composite materials is increasing day by day. These types of fiber are strong, light, inexpensive and sustainable. Natural fibers can be an alternative to expensive and discontinuous synthetic fibers where mechanical properties such as high strength and modulus of elasticity are not required. By using natural fibers as reinforcing material in polymers (thermoplastic and thermoset), it is possible to produce green materials with good environmental benefits as a result of the final disposal of the consumed materials. Therefore, in the last few years there have been some studies investigating the feasibility of replacing traditional synthetic fibers with natural fibers in composite materials. The aim of this thesis is to obtain a composite material suitable for recycling by using a natural product, banana fiber, instead of synthetic reinforcing elements such as glass fiber and carbon fiber in thermoplastic matrix composite materials used in many areas in daily life. Polyoxymethylene (POM), thermoplastic was used as matrix material. Natural banana fiber was used as a reinforcement material at the rates of 3%, 6% and 9% by weight. In addition, it is aimed to improve the mechanical thermal properties of the composite material by making chemical improvements with alkali treatment of the banana fiber.