Study on the properties of polyester composites reinforced by glass and natural fibers

The aim of this study was to verify the possibility of using polyester resin made from plant-based resources for the preparation of laminates reinforced by glass mat and flax fabric. The mechanical and physical properties of the composites based on this resin matrix were compared to those of the composites with polyester resin synthesized from petrochemical raw materials. Also, the changes in the static tensile properties and density of the laminates exposed to water for 24 h were investigated. It was found that the type of resin used had a negligible impact on the differences in the properties of produced laminates. Owing to this, the resin derived from petrochemical sources can be replaced by the resin obtained partially from the raw materials of plant origin in the production of laminates.