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This research addresses environmental concerns by exploring environmentally friendly composite materials as substitutes for non-biodegradable synthetic fibers. The study proposes the development of polymer matrix composites reinforced with natural fique fibers, sourced from a plant cultivated in Colombia. A BioPoxy 36 polymer matrix with a high carbon content was used and reinforced with fique fabric using the vacuum-assisted lamination method. To improve the adhesion between the fibers and the matrix, an alkaline chemical treatment was applied to the fiber using 2% sodium hydroxide by weight. Mechanical properties were assessed through ASTM D3039 tensile and ASTM D3479 fatigue tests. A fractographic analysis was also conducted to identify the different modes of failure present. In terms of material degradation, distinct stages were observed, characterized by stiffness loss and loss factor indicators. The Coffin-Manson model was used to obtain the strain life curve for R = 0.1, using these factors as criteria. The static properties of the composite reinforced with fique fibers indicate an increase of 45% in ultimate strength, 145% in strain, and 27% in Young's modulus compared to the unreinforced matrix. In terms of dynamic properties, the elastic modulus showed a maximum variation of up to 7.88%. Electron microscopy reveals the failure mechanism, a distinct separation between the matrix and the fiber can be observed as a result of mechanical stress. The analysis reveals the brittle fracture of the hard fique fiber and some matrix separation, as well as possible fractured bubbles that may have occurred during the manufacturing process

This article discusses a study on the fatigue behavior of a natural-based bio-composite material reinforced with fique natural fibers. The study focuses on characterizing the fatigue behavior of fique-reinforced composites to understand their performance and potential applications. The researchers found that the fique-reinforced composites exhibited good fatigue resistance. This research contributes to the development of sustainable materials and opens new market opportunities for rural areas. The document provides a detailed analysis of the mechanical behavior, fatigue resistance, stiffness loss, energy dissipation, and fracture morphology of a composite material called BioPoxy-fique. The material exhibited improved mechanical properties compared to other resins. The study suggests that fique can be a promising reinforcement material for composites. The document also includes a list of references related to natural fiber composites and their mechanical behavior, providing valuable insights for researchers and engineers in the field. [Extracted from the article]

Many studies available in the literature focus mainly on the mechanical characterization of fiber, leaving out other physicochemical and thermogravimetric analyses that allow for establishing its potential as an engineering material. This study characterizes fique fiber for its potential use as an engineering material. The fiber's chemical composition and physical, thermal, mechanical, and textile properties were analyzed. The fiber has a high holocellulose content and low lignin and pectin content, indicating its potential as a natural composite material for various applications. Infrared spectrum analysis revealed characteristic bands associated with multiple functional groups. The fiber had monofilaments with diameters around 10 μm and 200 μm, as determined by AFM and SEM images, respectively. Mechanical testing showed the fiber could resist a maximum stress of 355.07 MPa, with an average maximum strain at which breakage occurs of 8.7%. The textile characterization revealed a linear density range of 16.34 to 38.83 tex, with an average value of 25.54 tex and a regain of 13.67%. Thermal analysis showed that the fiber's weight decreased by around 5% due to moisture removal in the range of 40 °C to 100 °C, followed by weight loss due to thermal degradation of hemicellulose and glycosidic linkages of cellulose ranging from 250 to 320 °C. These characteristics suggest that fique fiber can be used in industries such as packaging, construction, composites, and automotive, among others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has extensively turned into an environmental global issue that requires multiple approaches to give use or recycle this material. This investigation analyzes the incorporation of PET laminates from post-consumer two-liter soda plastic bottles in combination with a fique fabric as a natural fiber reinforcement and an epoxy resin as the matrix. The value of this composite is the combination of a solid waste material with natural fibers, as a strategy to reduce plastic pollution in high-performance applications. The developed composite is aimed to be used in structural and impact applications. The mechanical properties were evaluated via Charpy and flexural tests, while the microstructure of the composite was investigated by scanning electron microscopy. From the structural point of view, the sandwich-structure composite proved to be a strong material, while amazingly the energy absorbed in an epoxy-PET-fique composite formulation was found to be better under impact when compared to the neat resin and to the epoxy-fique composite.

This work presents a thermochemical evaluation of fique bagasse waste resulting from industrial processes. Pelletization was implemented in order to mitigate the difficulty of dosing the raw waste with conventional feeding systems. The energy value of the fique bagasse used as fuel was evaluated separately through combustion and gasification. Combustion tests found the process to be thermally stable, and compatible with autothermal operation, with a thermal efficiency greater than 90% and a potential of use as energy close to 80% in the combustion gasses. Gasification produced the best quality of synthesis gas at an ER of 0.23, with a conversion greater than 96% and an HHV of greater than 5.0 MJ/Nm3, qualifying this gas as a potential heat source or as a fuel for power generation in internal combustion engines and micro-turbines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT This work was carried out in Antioquia, Colombia, in a collection of the Furcraea and Agave genera, important in the country for manufacturing strings, sacks, geotextiles, and handicrafts Currently, to enhance its use, applications have been developed in textiles, biodegradable materials and thermo-acoustic insulation, among others. The aim of this study was to characterize phenotypically and agronomically 94 accessions. The variables were weighted according to the degree of discrimination; a dissimilarity dendrogram was constructed using UPGMA based on Gower's distance, and the cophenetic correlation coefficient was determined. Six groups were identified; on the one hand, the accessions of the Agave genus formed groups A and B, with and without spines, respectively, showing the highest elongation values. On the other hand, the Furcraea accessions formed groups C to F, with the highest average values of fiber per plant, allowing a first approach to identify promising clones for their use per se or utilized in plant breeding programs. This study represents an approach to knowing the morphological and agronomic variability of the collection and highlights the importance of maintaining the germplasm bank for ex situ conservation.

Residual lignocellulosic materials can be used as adsorbents for heavy metals present in water, promoting the adsorption of metal ions on the surface and active sites of biomaterials, resulting in a low-cost and efficient removal. In this case, the residues from the agroindustrial use of the fique (Furcraea macrophilla) and the agricultural process of the corn maize (Zea mays) were studied as adsorbing phases of chromium and lead metals, in order to assess their capacity as biosorbents of these metals present in water samples, determined by equilibrium time, type of isotherm and maximum adsorption capacity; finding that in a time of 12 hours, the fique fiber has an adsorption capacity of Cr and Pb of 7,81 ± 1,40 mg/g and 169,51 ± 1,37 mg/g respectively, observing, a form of Freundlich type adsorption isotherm; while the corn layer fiber has an adsorption capacity of 13,35 ± 3,28 mg/g for chromium and 15,01 ± 3,47 mg/g for lead, showing a behavior in its Langmuir-type adsorption isotherm, concluding that both fibers have potential for the removal of the metals studied, especially the fiber of fique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has extensively turned into an environmental global issue that requires multiple approaches to give use or recycle this material. This investigation analyzes the incorporation of PET laminates from post-consumer two-liter soda plastic bottles in combination with a fique fabric as a natural fiber reinforcement and an epoxy resin as the matrix. The value of this composite is the combination of a solid waste material with natural fibers, as a strategy to reduce plastic pollution in high-performance applications. The developed composite is aimed to be used in structural and impact applications. The mechanical properties were evaluated via Charpy and flexural tests, while the microstructure of the composite was investigated by scanning electron microscopy. From the structural point of view, the sandwich-structure composite proved to be a strong material, while amazingly the energy absorbed in an epoxy-PET-fique composite formulation was found to be better under impact when compared to the neat resin and to the epoxy-fique composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Fique (Furcraea spp., Agavaceae) is source of natural fiber commuly used for packing in Colombia. However, the crop faces phytosanitary limitations that affect production, with scarce information published in this regard. In an ex situ biological collection of Furcraea spp. larvae of an unidentified species of Pyralidae were found feeding on the reproductive structures of the plants. Then, the aim of this work was to identify and report the species and damage of a potential Furcraea spp. pest in Colombia. The study done in the Research Center La Selva of AGROSAVIA, in the Municipality of Rionegro Antioquia, Colombia (6°07´46”N; -75°24´55” W; 2,100 m elavation). The immature stages were collected from infested bulbils and capsules of Furcraea plants and reared under laboratory conditions (17 °C and 65% relative humidity) until adults emerge. The species was identified as Phidotricha erigens Ragonot, 1888 using specialized keys for larva and adult. These larvae adversely affect the sanitary quality of fique seeds, which could affect the expansion of cultivated areas.This paper presents a description of some characters useful for identifying the species in the field.

Se registra por primera vez en Ecuador y Perú la especie nativa de América tropical Furcraea foetida (L.) Haw. Se presenta su descripción, así como fotografías, nombres vulgares, usos y algunos análisis morfológicos y ecológicos. Se describen por primera vez inflorescencias laterales en esta especie y se incorpora el binomio Furcraea nana Hochstätter & Van der Meer a la sinonimia de F. foetida.

Many studies available in the literature focus mainly on the mechanical characterization of fiber, leaving out other physicochemical and thermogravimetric analyses that allow for establishing its potential as an engineering material. This study characterizes fique fiber for its potential use as an engineering material. The fiber’s chemical composition and physical, thermal, mechanical, and textile properties were analyzed. The fiber has a high holocellulose content and low lignin and pectin content, indicating its potential as a natural composite material for various applications. Infrared spectrum analysis revealed characteristic bands associated with multiple functional groups. The fiber had monofilaments with diameters around 10 μm and 200 μm, as determined by AFM and SEM images, respectively. Mechanical testing showed the fiber could resist a maximum stress of 355.07 MPa, with an average maximum strain at which breakage occurs of 8.7%. The textile characterization revealed a linear density range of 16.34 to 38.83 tex, with an average value of 25.54 tex and a regain of 13.67%. Thermal analysis showed that the fiber’s weight decreased by around 5% due to moisture removal in the range of 40 °C to 100 °C, followed by weight loss due to thermal degradation of hemicellulose and glycosidic linkages of cellulose ranging from 250 to 320 °C. These characteristics suggest that fique fiber can be used in industries such as packaging, construction, composites, and automotive, among others.

Copyright of Revista de la Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales is the property of Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas, Fisicas y Naturales and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract Currently, the industry requires the use of new materials that have better technical characteristics and that have a minimal environmental impact. A viable option to meet these requirements are biocomposite materials reinforced with natural fibers. Recent research in this field of composite materials has sought to develop better properties in the materials, giving rise to hybrid composites, which are composed of more than one fiber as reinforcement together with the matrix; however, these studies are mainly focused on synthetic fibers, leaving a large area of research regarding natural fibers. This article describes the manufacture, mechanical, and morphological characterization of new natural hybrid biocomposite materials of fique - mulberry. Five biocomposites were elaborated under the hand lay up manufacturing technique using various layers of fique and mulberry and using polyester resin as a matrix. The mechanical characterization was carried out by means of the tensile and bending test, obtaining the best mechanical properties in the composite with the greatest amount of natural fiber, which presented a tensile stress of 30.27 MPa and a bending stress of 18.97 MPa. The morphological characterization was carried out using scanning electron microscopy, where a medium resin-fiber adhesion and a decomposition of the matrix were observed.

This work was carried out in Antioquia, Colombia, in a collection of the Furcraea and Agave genera, important in the country for manufacturing strings, sacks, geotextiles, and handicrafts Currently, to enhance its use, applications have been developed in textiles, biodegradable materials and thermo-acoustic insulation, among others. The aim of this study was to characterize phenotypically and agronomically 94 accessions. The variables were weighted according to the degree of discrimination; a dissimilarity dendrogram was constructed using UPGMA based on Gower's distance, and the cophenetic correlation coefficient was determined. Six groups were identified; on the one hand, the accessions of the Agave genus formed groups A and B, with and without spines, respectively, showing the highest elongation values. On the other hand, the Furcraea accessions formed groups C to F, with the highest average values of fiber per plant, allowing a first approach to identify promising clones for their use per se or utilized in plant breeding programs. This study represents an approach to knowing the morphological and agronomic variability of the collection and highlights the importance of maintaining the germplasm bank for ex situ conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Los materiales lignocelulósicos residuales de origen vegetal pueden usarse como adsorbentes de metales pesados presentes en el agua, propiciando la adsorción de los iones metálicos sobre la superficie y sitios activos de los materiales adsorbentes de origen natural, lo que resulta en una remoción eficiente y de bajo costo. En este caso, los residuos del aprovechamiento agroindustrial del fique (Furcraea macrophilla) y el residuo agrícola del capacho de maíz (Zea mays) se estudiaron como fases adsorbentes de los metales cromo y plomo, con el fin de valorar su capacidad como adsorbente de estos metales presentes en muestras de agua. Los resultados encontrados muestran que la fibra de fique tiene una capacidad de adsorción de Cr y Pb de 7,81 ± 1,40 mg/g y 169,51 ± 1,37 mg/g respectivamente, observando, según los datos experimentales, una forma de isoterma de adsorción tipo Freundlich; mientras que la fibra de capacho de maíz presenta una capacidad de adsorción de 13,35 ± 3,28 mg/g para cromo y 15,01 ± 3,47 mg/g para plomo, mostrando de forma gráfica un comportamiento en su isoterma de adsorción tipo Langmuir.

Thanks to their properties, the use of composite materials in industrial applications has increased in recent decades, especially those with natural fiber reinforcements due to their lower environmental impact; however, one of the great challenges presented by this type of material is to shape them by cutting as their surface integrity can be compromised. In the present work, morphological analysis is carried out on a composite material with fique fiber, evaluating the superficial affectation by cutting made with a conventional tool, laser, and water jet. The material was made with six layers of fique fiber and polyester resin. The morphological study was carried out through scanning electron microscopy, where high defects were evidenced with the conventional tool, an affectation to the matrix in laser cutting, and a low surface impact using the water jet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fique is a fiber of South American origin that has adequate properties to be used as reinforcement in composite materials, recently there have been various research for the development of composite materials with this fiber type. This article compiles different studies into composite materials reinforced with fique fiber. Initially discussed the issues related to the properties and treatments most commonly used to fiber to improve their quality and adhesion, then the types of matrix and the main manufacturing techniques that have been used for the manufacture of composites reinforced with fique fiber are described, followed by the different tests and characterization tests that have been applied to them to know their main properties and finally, their applications and the use of micromechanical models to describe them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contexto: Las saponinas corresponden a un grupo de mol´eculas con aplicabilidad industrial, especialmente para el sector alimenticio como estabilizante de espuma en bebidas gaseosas. En el per´ıodo comprendido entre el 2013 y 2017, su mercado increment´o aproximadamente un 50 %, convirti´endose en un sector econ´omico importante que ha promovido un marcado inter´es en la optimizaci´on de diversos procesos de extracci´on desde diferentes fuentes naturales. M´etodo: Se realiz´o una revisi´on bibliogr´afica evaluando aplicabilidad, extracci´on y aspectos econ´omicos de las saponinas a nivel mundial. Se realiz´o el dise˜no conceptual de una planta piloto para la extracci´on de saponinas de jugo de fique con base en los resultados obtenidos del an´alisis de una matriz de decisi´on. Resultados: Una alternativa viable para extraer saponinas de jugo de fique es la floculaci´on, cuyas ventajas radican en su simplicidad tecnol´ogica, bajo consumo energ´etico, aplicabilidad directa a la matriz de inter´es y uso de solventes como agua y etanol. Conclusiones: Al utilizar como floculante el policloruro de aluminio (PAC), debido a su capacidad de remover materia org´anica y a su selectividad, se favorece la recuperaci´on de las saponinas en el clarificado. En el dise˜no conceptual, se presenta una planta piloto con una capacidad de 67.462 L/h y una eficiencia de 87,45 %.

La fibra de fique es originaria de Sur América y presenta propiedades adecuadas para ser utilizada como refuerzo de materiales compuestos, recientemente diversas investigaciones han desarrollado materiales con este tipo de fibra. En este artículo se realiza una compilación de estudios respecto a materiales compuestos reforzados con la fibra de fique. Se discute inicialmente los temas relacionados a las propiedades y los tratamientos más utilizados aplicados a la fibra para mejorar su calidad y adhesión, posteriormente se describen los tipos de matriz y las principales técnicas de fabricación que se han empleado para la manufactura de los compuestos reforzados con la fibra de fique, seguidamente las diferentes pruebas y ensayos de caracterización que se les han aplicado para conocer sus principales propiedades y por último, sus aplicaciones y el uso de modelos micromecánicas para describirlos.

Fique (Furcraea spp., Agavaceae) is source of natural fiber commuly used for packing in Colombia. However, the crop faces phytosanitary limitations that affect production, with scarce information published in this regard. In an ex situ biological collection of Furcraea spp. larvae of an unidentified species of Pyralidae were found feeding on the reproductive structures of the plants. Then, the aim of this work was to identify and report the species and damage of a potential Furcraea spp. pest in Colombia. The study done in the Research Center La Selva of AGROSAVIA, in the Municipality of Rionegro Antioquia, Colombia (6°07'46"N; -75°24'55" W; 2,100 m elavation). The immature stages were collected from infested bulbils and capsules of Furcraea plants and reared under laboratory conditions (17 °C and 65% relative humidity) until adults emerge. The species was identified as Phidotricha erigens Ragonot, 1888 using specialized keys for larva and adult. These larvae adversely affect the sanitary quality of fique seeds, which could affect the expansion of cultivated areas. This paper presents a description of some characters useful for identifying the species in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high content of clay minerals within the soil has a significant effect on its engineering behavior; water affects the interaction of their minerals, which influences their plasticity and deformability. Structures made with or on plastic materials can experience problems due to the high deformations presented in soil. Therefore, decreasing the deformability of plastic soils contributes to the stability and serviceability of the structures supported by this kind of soils. This investigation is about the effect of fique fibers contents in the mechanical behavior of a plastic soil based on a kaolinite‐type clay. Fique fiber is natural fiber from Colombia. Soil with additions of 0.0 wt%, 0.2 wt%, 0.7 wt%, and 1.0 wt% of fique fibers was fabricated. The goals by adding the fibers are to increase the compressive strength of the soil and to add a green reinforcement to the soil targeting a circular economy solution. Density, optimal water content, and unconfined compression tests were conducted. The microstructure was characterized with scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. Results showed that fique fibers improved not only the compressive strength by almost three times for sample with 1.0 wt% of fibers with respect to the reference soil without fibers but also the ductility increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of natural fibers as reinforcement for composite materials is on the rise due to the need to reduce environmental damage and manufacture sustainable products. One of the fibers used for this purpose is fique fiber. This article describes the manufacture of a student chair with fique fiberreinforced composite material. To choose the amount of reinforcement to be used in the elaboration of the chair, the mechanical characterization of several composites with different percentages of the fiber was carried out, where it was found that both the flexural and tensile properties increased with a higher insertion of fique. The selected material was analyzed morphologically with optical microscopy, finding that there was good adhesion between the fiber and the matrix. A simulation with finite elements showed that the chair would resist a load of 100 kg. The student chair was manufactured using the Hand Lay Up technique with material composed of fique fiber and polyester resin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays there is very little information about the properties of the main vegetable fibers used in artisanal production in southern Colombia. The present comparative study analyzes the physical-chemical and mechanical properties of Fique (Furcraea macrophylla), Tetera (Stromanthe stromathoides or Stromanthe jacquinii), Totora (Schoenoplectus californicus) and Iraca or Toquilla Palm (Carludovica palmata), with the intention of identifying its strengths and weaknesses like an artisan raw material. The study found that fibers with higher elasticity such as Fique can be used for items such as clothing, while stronger fibers such as Tetera can be used to create items such as baskets that require more resistance to weight and rigidity. It was also found that Iraca and Totora could be better applied in the textile industry, and that the high moisture content in all fibers can affect their technological characteristics and the quality life cycle of artisan products.

Nowadays there is very little information about the properties of the main vegetable fibers used in artisanal production in southern Colombia. The present comparative study analyzes the physical-chemical and mechanical properties of Fique (Furcraea macrophylla), Tetera (Stromanthe stromathoides or Stromanthe jacquinii), Totora (Schoenoplectus californicus) and Iraca or Toquilla Palm (Carludovica palmata), with the intention of identifying its strengths and weaknesses like an artisan raw material. The study found that fibers with higher elasticity such as Fique can be used for items such as clothing, while stronger fibers such as Tetera can be used to create items such as baskets that require more resistance to weight and rigidity. It was also found that Iraca and Totora could be better applied in the textile industry, and that the high moisture content in all fibers can affect their technological characteristics and the quality life cycle of artisan products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the technological origins and changes of the Colombian fique (henequen) industry throughout the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. It argues that the industry was established and reached significant levels of growth, in part due to the input of Colombian intellectuals, entrepre-neurs, and scientists who examined global developments, disseminated useful knowledge, and sought to adapt suitable crops, practices, and technologies to Colombia’s particular needs, settings, and social traits. These individuals looked mainly at Mexico. This history challenges the traditional assumption that Latin American countries generally developed a technological dependence on the North Atlantic nations. Mid-nineteenth-century Mexican inventions turned out to be particularly useful to Colombians seeking to foster small productive units in rural areas. The Colombian fique industry developed initially as “patrimonio de los pobres” (“heritage of the poor”). Attempts to introduce sophisticated, expensive technologies proved futile.

Composite cellulose hydrogels result from physical or chemical crosslinking processes. Unique tridimensional architectures, arising from the hydrogel components' interactions, make these materials ideal to design function-driven structures. We follow the development of cellulose nanofiber/silver nanoparticle (Ag NP) hydrogels in aqueous media. TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TOCNs), extracted from fique residual biomass, acted as both capping and reducing agents for the in-situ synthesis of Ag NPs. Temperature and COONa:AgNO3 molar ratios influence hydrogel formation. Increasing temperatures (60 ºC) resulted in shorter reaction times (28 h) compared to the behavior at lower temperatures (25 ºC), which required longer reaction times (192 h). High COONa:AgNO3 molar ratios (1:3) produced stiffer and darker TOCN/Ag NP hydrogels at the expense of large cubic Ag NP clusters formation (1 µm). Conversely, lower COONa:AgNO3 molar ratios (1:1) resulted in softer hydrogels with spherical Ag NPs exhibiting diameters between 15 and 80 nm. Ag NP formation and crosslinking processes strongly depend on unreacted aldehydes on the TOCN surfaces after the TEMPO oxidation reaction. IR spectra indicated that there is a bridging bidentate interaction between COO− groups and Ag+ ions. These carboxylate-metal complexes might weaken the hydrogen bond system by increasing the distance between cellulose molecules, decreasing the material's crystallinity index, as observed in XRD analyses. TGA analyses demonstrated that Ag NPs significantly increased the TOCN/Ag NP hydrogels' thermal stability compared to TOCN hydrogels. Rheological probing of the hydrogels elucidated the role of Ag NP distribution and loading on the elastic response to cyclical deformations, suggesting a myriad of uses for these materials, particularly in medicinal applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biocomposite materials reinforced with natural fibers play an important role these days for the development of new products. They offer good mechanical characteristics, reducing the negative ecological impact at the time of their disposal. Its use in dynamic applications is still limited since there are not enough studies where its behavior is characterized in these environments. DMA mechanical dynamic test is usually applied to know thermal-mechanical properties of this type of materials. However this technique does not provide information on the modal parameters of the materials, as are the different vibration frequencies in which it would come into resonance. To obtain these properties, a modal analysis must be performed. Therefore, in this work a dynamic vibratory characterization was made through experimental modal analysis to biocomposites reinforced with fique fibers, evaluating the impact in the modal parameters due to the natural fiber content, which allowed recognizing how the biocomposites behave due to vibratory loads since there is no evidence of previous studies of this kind to biocomposites with this type of natural fiber and in which possible applications could be used. The biocomposites were made with different layers of natural fiber from fique in random distribution and polyester resin using the technique of vacuum infusion manufacturing. The experimental modal analysis was performed obtaining the frequency response function (FRF) according to ISO 7626-2 excitation with a shaker. The results obtained show an increase in the natural frequency of the biocomposites as more natural fiber is incorporated, presenting a high damping and bending modes of vibration as well as a possible application as vibration and sound insulators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ingeniería (0121-750X) is the property of Ingenieria and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Bio-insulations have gained great interest in recent years due to their potential to reduce energy consumption without negative environmental impacts. Fique is one of the most important crops in Colombia, it has shown a low thermal conductivity which makes it a potential replacement for the common insulation materials. However, there are few works that study its thermal properties. In order to enhance the understanding of fique as thermal insulation, in this paper a morphological analysis of raw fique fibers and Thermogravimetry (TGA) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) tests of three fique samples are presented, namely, natural fique without treatment, fique washed with a commercial softener and fique after having been soaked for 24 hours in the same softener.

Time and percentage of biodegradation of fique, cotton and polypropylene fibers was determined by the methodology of ASTM 5988-12. The degradation of the polypropylene used in pea crop in Nariño generates environmental problems, reason that motivates this study. In parallel, texture analysis of the fibers exposed to real environmental conditions was done. The CO2 produced was trapped with KOH and indirectly calculated by titration with HCl. A zero-reaction order was assumed for biodegradation of the fibers. The velocities and biodegradation time were 0.547, 0.111, 0.0147 %/day and 6.06, 29.90, 225.20 months for fique, cotton and polypropylene respectively. The tension at maximum load showed that the fique fiber decreased from 100 to 26 MPa in 16 days, while cotton and polypropylene did not lose this property. Finally, the fibers of fique and cotton would be the most suitable to use in pea crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-insulations have gained great interest in recent years due to their potential to reduce energy consumption without negative environmental impacts. Fique is one of the most important crops in Colombia, it has shown a low thermal conductivity which makes it a potential replacement for the common insulation materials. However, there are few works that study its thermal properties. In order to enhance the understanding of fique as thermal insulation, in this paper a morphological analysis of raw fique fibers and Thermogravimetry (TGA) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) tests of three fique samples are presented, namely, natural fique without treatment, fique washed with a commercial softener and fique after having been soaked for 24 hours in the same softener. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local production of construction materials is a valuable tool for improving the building sector sustainability. In this sense, the use of lignocellulosic fibers from local species becomes an interesting alternative to the development of such materials. As it is thought that the properties of fiber-based materials are dependent on the fibers properties, the knowledge of such properties is fundamental to promote materials development. This study compares the physical, morphological, acoustic, and mechanical characteristics of coir (Cocos nucifera) and fique (Furcraea Agavaceae) fibers and panels. The chemical composition appears to be associated with the general behavior of the fibers and panels, regarding higher tensile strength, thermal degradation behavior, and water absorption. In most tests, fique had the upper hand, showing superior performance; however, on thermal degradation and water absorption, both materials had similar behavior. The sound absorption measurement showed that the fiber diameter affects the sound absorption at high frequencies, where fique panels showed better performance than coir panels.

In the following research, the mechanical and dynamic vibratory properties between a fique fiber reinforced composite and a composite with E-glass fibers were compared. The materials were fabricated trough a vacuum infusion manufacturing technique using a bioepoxy resin. The mechanical properties were obtained by tensile tests according to the ASTM standards for each configuration. The results demonstrated higher values in stiffness and strength for the composite with E-glass fiber. Experimental modal analysis was used for the dynamic vibrational study, obtaining very similar behaviors for each material. The interface between the materials was studied by scanning electron microscopy, in which a low adhesion between the natural fiber and the resin was evidenced; affecting the mechanical and dynamic properties of the fique composite compared to the E-glass composite.

Colombia es un importante productor de cabuya, fibra natural extraída de fique (Furcraea macrophylla Baker). La explotación de esta planta se caracteriza por productos y procesos tradicionales, poco tecnificados, de bajo valor agregado y con un aprovechamiento limitado de la planta de fique, lo que se traduce en baja rentabilidad. No obstante, en los residuos de este proceso agroindustrial se encuentran muchas sustancias de interés, aun sin explorar, entre ellas los carbohidratos, específicamente los fructanos, como la inulina y los fructooligosacaridos (FOS) que son polímeros de fructosa considerados fibra dietaría y que por sus características se clasifican como prebióticos. En esta investigación se evidenció la presencia de FOS e inulinas en los residuos obtenidos durante el proceso de desfibrado de las hojas de fique a través de técnicas enzimáticas y espectro-fotométricas. Debido a las amplias aplicaciones en el sector alimentario se recomienda su cuantificación, extracción y caracterización con el fin de proporcionar valor agregado a través de la explotación de estos compuestos.

In this paper are studied the physicochemical, mechanical and thermal properties of the natural fique fibers, that can be used as reinforcement of polymeric matrices. The fibers were subjected to superficial modifications from chemical treatments which are conventionally used to promote the compatibility of natural fibers (hydrophilics) with matrices of polymeric nature (hydrophobics). The superficial modification process of the fibers was carried out by alkalinization treatment with NaOH, followed by grafting of a coupling agent type silane and then a pre-impregnation with polyethylene. By running FTIR tests, it was possible to observe functional typical groups of native fibers and confirmed the proper execution of the superficial modifications proposed; in the same way, the thermal characterization by TGA allowed to demonstrate the loss of hemicellulose and lignin, that were removed with alkaline treatment, and the appearance of a new transition due to the polyethylene deposited subsequently with the pre-impregnate treatment. Finally, it was found that the alkaline treatment conditioned the mechanical properties of the treated fibers, being negligible the influence of silanization and the pre-impregnation in this characterization.

In this work, fique fibers used in Colombia’s footwear industry were characterized, functionalized, and added to a natural rubber/butadiene styrene rubber/polybutadiene (NR/SBR/BR) matrix. The morphological analysis of the fibers revealed a preferential orientation with formation of thin layers. The mixing of the composites was carried out in an open roll mill. Curing properties of the compounds were measured by using a moving disk rheometer to establish the effect of the fibers addition in the vulcanization parameters. Abrasive wear resistance, mechanical, and aging properties were evaluated. Processing conditions feasible to obtain NR/SBR/BR-fique fibers composites for commercial applications with suitable mechanical properties were found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fique fibers are extracted from Furcraea spp. leaves, with 5% average mass yield, using mechanical decortication. Juice, pulp and tow, the by-products of this process, amount 95% of the leaf weight and are considered waste. We extracted cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) from Fique tow, via ultrasound-assisted TEMPO followed by mechanical disintegration with sonication. Fique CNF exhibit diameters around 100 nm, degree of oxidation (DO) of 0.27 and surface charge density (σ) of 1.6 mmol/g. Fique CNF aqueous suspensions show optical birefringence and high colloidal stability due to a high ζ potential (−53 mV). The morphology, chemical structure, crystallinity and phase transitions of Fique CNF were studied using FESEM, IR-ATR, XRD and TGA. We observed that the delignification pretreatment and the TEMPO reaction assisted by ultrasound significantly increase Fique CNF σ and ζ potential, in contrast with the oxidation carried out without ultrasound or with raw (lignified) tow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A relatively unknown natural fiber extracted from the leaves of the fique plant, native of the South American Andes, has recently shown potential as reinforcement of polymer composites for engineering applications. Preliminary investigations indicated a promising substitute for synthetic fibers, competing with other well-known natural fibers. The fabric made from fique fibers have not yet been investigated as possible composite reinforcement. Therefore, in the present work a more thorough characterization of fique fabric as a reinforcement of composites with a polyester matrix was performed. Thermal mechanical properties of fique fabric composites were determined by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The ballistic performance of plain woven fique fabric-reinforced polyester matrix composites was investigated as a second layer in a multilayered armor system (MAS). The results revealed a sensible improvement in thermal dynamic mechanical behavior. Both viscoelastic stiffness and glass transition temperature were increased with the amount of incorporated fique fabric. In terms of ballistic results, the fique fabric composites present a performance similar to that of the much stronger Kevlar™ as an MAS second layer with the same thickness. A cost analysis indicated that armor vests with fique fabric composites as an MAS second layer would be 13 times less expensive than a similar creation made with Kevlar™. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a modal analysis was applied on a bioepoxy/fiber composite material using the simulation (Finite Elements), experimentation and analytical modeling knowing the deviation between each of the methods of the solution. The material was elaborated using a bioepoxy resin and fique fibers in the distribution of weave under the technique of manufacturing the infusion vacuum. Tensile tests were performed on the composite material according to ASTM D3039 / D3039M to obtain the mechanical properties that allow the development of the mathematical model and the simulation and analysis of scanning electron microscopy to observe the adhesion between the fiber and the matrix. The experimental modal analysis was performed by measuring the frequency response (FRF) under ISO 7626-2. The Euler-Bernoulli equation was used for analytical modeling, while the ANSYS finite element software was used for the simulation. It concludes that for the first modes of material vibration obtained results close between the three methods, however for the third mode the error increases by the interaction between the matrix and the fiber and the effects of the rotation of the cross-section of the test item. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the following research, the mechanical and dynamic vibratory properties between a fique fiber reinforced composite and a composite with E-glass fibers were compared. The materials were fabricated trough a vacuum infusion manufacturing technique using a bioepoxy resin. The mechanical properties were obtained by tensile tests according to the ASTM standards for each configuration. The results demonstrated higher values in stiffness and strength for the composite with E-glass fiber. Experimental modal analysis was used for the dynamic vibrational study, obtaining very similar behaviors for each material. The interface between the materials was studied by scanning electron microscopy, in which a low adhesion between the natural fiber and the resin was evidenced; affecting the mechanical and dynamic properties of the fique composite compared to the E-glass composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As worldwide agricultural production rises, agro-industrial biomass becomes an abundant raw source for uses in energy and materials production. In Colombia fique plants ( Furcraea spp.) are traditionally used to extract hard cellulosic fibers using mechanical decortication. Juice, pulp and tow, the by-products of this process, represent almost 95% of the fique leaf weight and are produced in large quantities. Data on these materials is scarce and greatly needed to guide and fuel fique agro-industrial development in Colombia. In this contribution we study the physicochemical properties of fique fibers and by-products (tow and pulp), before and after alkaline hydrogen peroxide treatment (AHP), using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Raw/clean fique tow is similar in structure and composition to fique fibers with average cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin contents of 52.3, 23.8 and 23.9%; in this by-product cellulose exists as a highly ordered structure with crystallinity index of 57%. Raw/clean fique pulp, composed of cellulose filaments from secondary cell walls and leaf epidermis, has average cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin contents of 30.5, 29.7 and 9.6%, with cellulose exhibiting an amorphous structure with a crystallinity index of 35%. The AHP treatment of these by-products effectively removed non-cellulosic compounds such as hemicellulose and lignin. After AHP lignin content in fique tow decreases to 2.8% while cellulose crystallinity increases up to 73%, Likewise, fique pulp shows a reduction in lignin to 2.1% and an increase in cellulose crystallinity up to 47%. IR spectroscopic analysis, after AHP, show a decrease of signals attributed to hemicellulose and lignin and FESEM images show a disruption of the lamellar structure in the macro fiber by the removal of hemicellulose, lignin and ground tissue, leaving cellulose fibrils exposed. As the first in-depth report on fique by-products characterization, our results indicate that pulp and tow are interesting lignocellulosic materials due to their significant content of crystalline and amorphous cellulose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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