Diseño de compuestos poliméricos reforzados con fibra de Mauritia flexuosa para aplicaciones en ortesis digitales

Abstract

CONDITION FOR PUBLICATION OF PROJECT. This research focused on the design and validation of a low-environmental-impact biocomposite material for the manufacture of orthopedic devices. The synergy between a conventional epoxy resin matrix (0% VOC) catalyzed with polyamide and natural fibers from Morete (Mauritia flexuosa) was evaluated. The experimental study, governed by ASTM D7264 and ASTM D3039 standards, determined that a 30% volume fraction of fine fiber is the optimal conFig.tion, achieving a tensile strength of 43.82 MPa and a Young's modulus of 1324.75 MPa, significantly exceeding the properties of the pure matrix. The results confirm that the developed biocomposite exhibits significant mechanical superiority over conventional thermoplastics used in orthopedics, demonstrating more robust structural behavior, greater dimensional stability, and high specific stiffness. To obtain the material, a processing window was established using a consolidation matrix. It was determined that accelerated curing at 90°C and a pressure of 1500 psi guarantees maximum nominal density and interfacial adhesion. This protocol avoids low-pressure porosity or the thermo-oxidative degradation observed at higher temperatures. The design was validated through numerical modeling in ANSYS, ensuring the device's integrity under service conditions. Finally, the integration of additive manufacturing for custom molds facilitated the transition from digital design to physical prototype, positioning Morete as a high-performance, sustainable, and technically sound alternative to synthetic reinforcements. Keywords: Biocomposite, Mauritia flexuosa, Epoxy resin, Orthosis, Thermal consolidation, Structural robustness.