OBTENCIÓN DE UN MATERIAL COMPUESTO A BASE DE FIBRAS DE ÁGAVE ANGUSTIFOLIA HAW CON LÁTEX NATURAL

Abstract

In Oaxaca State, Mexico, 23 species of agave have been identified, which are used in the local production of mezcal; the most important species is Agave angustifolia. The mezcal industry take advantage only the stem and discard leaves. Annually 122696 tons of bagasse of Agave which is not used, while in other countries, natural fibers are industrially used. In order to use this lignocellulosic fibers of bagasse, a physical and chemical characterization was made. A composite material was obtained by adding fibers to a natural polymer, with two types of latex (natural and spin), with different percentage latex-fiber (50-50, 40-60 and 70 - 30%), and with different particle sizes (600 and 300 µm). Its physical and physico-chemical properties were evaluated, the mean values of tensile strength, Young’s modulus, % strain (ε), and ultimate tensile strength were determined via mechanical tests, and also water absorption was determined. Composites were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy too. The obtained values from mechanical test, shown in all cases, values that they exceed those found in the same tests for individual fibers. It is concluded that it is possible to add value to the fibers through the development of composite materials.