Open AccessProperties of Kenaf Fibers/Epoxy Biocomposites: Flexural Strength and Impact Strength
Author(s) -
Hendra Suherman,
Edri Azwar,
Duskiardi,
Yovial,
Edi Septe
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
iop conference series. materials science and engineering
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1757-899X
pISSN - 1757-8981
DOI - 10.1088/1757-899x/652/1/012036
Subject(s) - kenaf , biocomposite , flexural strength , materials science , composite material , epoxy , fiber , izod impact strength test , ultimate tensile strength , composite number
Kenaf is a non-woody plant, which has high potential fiber to be used as polymer matrix reinforcement. Different compositions of kenaf fiber as bio reinforcing material at different fabrication process parameters will produce different biocomposite properties. This study uses kenaf fibers in the composition of 10, 20, and 30 wt.% as reinforcing material. Kenaf fiber and epoxy resin were mixed based on predetermined compositions, stirred using a mechanical stirrer at 200 rpm for 10 minutes. Then the mixture is poured into a mold and placed on a hot press machine. Pressure of 50 kg/mm 2 for 30 minutes at 150°C is used to produce kenaf fiber/epoxy biocomposite. The result showed that the increasing of kenaf fiber content in the matrix is succeeded to increase the flexural and impact strength of the biocomposite kenaf fiber/epoxy produced. The highest flexural strength (136 MPa ) and highest impact strength (180 KJ/m 2 ) were obtained at a composition of 30 wt.% Kenaf fiber.