Development of a geotextile coated with latex and used as a protection element on heated surfaces

A lot has been researched today about new energy resources and sustainable materials aiming to decrease the impacts caused on the environment. Materials waste that were previously destined for the trash, are now seen in a different way. This present paper had as purpose the confection of a geotextile using banana tree leaves, in particular, fibers extracted from the stem of the banana tree leaves, which presently, are recognized as one of the strongest cellulosic fibers. As a natural geotextile matrix, latex was used and, subsequently, possible applications for the geotextile were analysed through previous material characterization based on literature. The samples were weaved and covered by latex, thereafter, analysis and verification were conducted on the main physical-chemical properties and also mechanical and thermal properties. Such results were obtained through tests, as: tensile properties, flammability, thermogravimetric analysis, water and humidity absorption, moisture resistance, friction, density, weight, biodegradation under environmental conditions. and thermal conductivity. Based on the obtained results, it was possbible to conclude that geotextile can be used as surfaces coating, because beside its high tensile strength, even when heated, the goetextile presentes a low thermal conductivity (0.214 W/mK). That fact means that the material has good thermal characteristics, quality of an isulator. Also, it was conclude that the natural composite has combined properties from banana tree fibers (as thermal properties and mechanical strength) and from thermoplastic elastomer latex. Such result did not compromise the hygroscopicity of the banana fiber. Finally, it could be concluded that the material is sustainable, does not damage the environment and fulfil the coating function, as expected. (paper)