Damage Analysis and a Novel Mathematical Relation Between the Interface Quality and the Impact Fracture Energy for Epoxy Composites Reinforced with Medium and High Ramie Woven Fabric Volume Fractions

A literature review about polymer composites reveals that the natural fibers have been widely used as a reinforcement phase during the recent years. In this framework, the lignocellulosic fibers have received marked attention because of their environmental, thermomechanical and economic advantages for many industrial sectors. This research aims to identify the impact behavior of ramie reinforced epoxy composites with medium and high volume fractions of fibers in intact (nonaged) and aged conditions as well as to analyze if the influence of interface quality on the impact fracture energy can be described by a novel mathematical model. To reach these objectives, the study is designed with three groups (40%, 50% and 60% of fiber theoretical volume fractions) of intact specimens and three groups of aged samples by condensation and ultraviolet radiation (C-UV) simulation containing the same fiber percentages. Consecutively, impact strength and fracture surface analyses are done to expand the comprehension of the damage mechanisms suffered by the biocomposites and to support the development of the mathematical relation. Certainly, this novel model can contribute to more sustainable and greener industries in the near future.