Composite Materials from Tururi (Manicaria saccifera Gaertn.) Fibrous Material: Effect of Structural Parameters on the Tensile Properties and Applications

Tururi is a natural fibrous structure that protects the fruits of the Amazon Ubuçu palm tree (Manicaria saccifera Gaertn.), traditionally utilized by local communities in the Marajó archipelago—Brazil. The goal of this research was to report the development of two distinct types of multilayer 3D green composites from tururi fibrous material, defining density and moisture content, characterizing their tensile properties, and identifying applications based on their performance. A total of six composite samples were fabricated using the vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) technique, with two distinct types of resin to compare results: castor bean-based polyurethane; and epoxy. The results showed similar results for both types of resin and indicate that composites made with tururi fibrous material are suitable for use in fields such as furniture, internal building elements, fashion, and crafts. The employment of natural fibers, in a sustainable context, brings implications of great importance to society. In that regard, the composite with castor bean resin, as it is bio-based, is more suitable in terms of sustainability and product life cycle.