Effect of Water on Mechanical Properties of Unsaturated Polyester—Acetylated Hydroxypropyl Guar Gum Composites

The use of natural, eco-friendly, renewable resources in composites, as a reinforcing material, requires chemical or physical treatment to improve compatibility with the polymer matrix. In the present study hydroxypropyl guar gum (HPG) was acetylated to investigate its influence on the behavior of its unsaturated polyester (UPR) composites on exposure to water. The kinetics of water diffusion and effect on mechanical properties were studied with respect to the degree of acetylation and filler concentration. The absorption behavior of all composites was found to follow Fick’s law. Mechanical properties of HPG composites were found to be superior compared to pure UPR and acetylated HPG composites.