Abstract:

The research presented in this paper focuses on determination of the physical and mechanical properties of composites made on the basis of natural polymer, i.e., crushed collagen fibres which are waste from the leather industry. Mineral supplements such as dolomite, bentonite and kaolin were the filling of the composite produced. Their application was dictated by increasing the application range, and we strove to optimise the composition of the composite in terms of physical and mechanical properties determined in static tensile tests. An analysis of the water absorption capacity was also carried out in order to select optimal compositions which have the best properties. The test results indicate extensive application possibilities of the composites produced, one of which is in footwear insoles, whose quality is an important element determining the hygienic qualities of shoes due to the high density of sweat glands in the plantar part of the foot. This research indicates the possibility of individual development of the composite properties of collagen fibres and mineral supplements in terms of their application, taking into account the medical aspect.