In recent decades, several studies have been observed, both nationally and internationally, which seek alternative materials to those conventionally used by industry, with emphasis on biomass residues from agricultural activities, such as vegetable fibers, in the quest to minimize the problems caused to the environment and replace products harmful to human beings. In addition to offering advantages such as atoxicity, biodegradability, low density and reduced cost, such as fibers derived from the pseudostem of the banana tree. With regard to banana trees, Brazil is one of the largest producers of its fruit at an international level, and as a result this is one of the activities that most generate waste in the country. Therefore, this research has as main objective to make composite materials with the fibers of the pseudostem of the banana tree in the form of fabrics and thermoset polyester resin, destined to the production of materials for engineering. Initially, the process of extracting and cleaning the fibers was carried out, followed by the weaving of flat-type fabrics on the nail loom, to be used as a reinforcing agent. Next, polymeric composites were molded using a manual process (hand lay up) and application of pressure at room temperature. Thus, composites were obtained: full matrix and those reinforced with glass fibers and banana tree fibers. Mechanical tests were carried out – flexion and traction –, flammability and microscopy. The polymeric composites were manufactured in the following compositions: V1 – Full matrix; V2 – with reinforcing agent with two layers of fiberglass mats; V3 – with reinforcing agent with one layer of banana fiber fabric and V4 – with reinforcing agent with two layers of banana fiber fabric. The materials of composition V3 and V4 presented tensile strength values of 29.25 MPa 51.27 MPa and bending strength of 142.45 MPa and 91.99 MPa, respectively. As for resistance to flammability,
all composite materials manufactured showed values below those stipulated by the regulations and within the Brazilian standard. The analysis of the failure mechanisms present on their surfaces was performed using MEV, which can show the arrangement between matrix and reinforcing agent, as well as the presence of cracks in the matrix, fracture and rupture of fibers in the reinforcing agent, voids and pullout.
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