Effect of CaCO3 Particles Size and Content on Impact Strenght of Kenaf/CaCO3/Epoxy Resin Hybrid Composites

Abstract

Thermoplastic and thermoset polymer composites reinforced with kenaf fiber or CaCO 3 have been extensively investigated. However, the study on the combination of kenaf fiber and CaCO 3 reinforced epoxy resin is rare. This research discussed the effect of CaCO 3 particle size and the ratio of kenaf to CaCO 3 content on the impact strength of alkali-treated kenaf/ CaCO 3 /epoxy resin hybrid composites. Thirty % of the hybrid kenaf fibers and CaCO 3 particles reinforced epoxy resin composites were fabricated by hand lay-up technique followed by cold press. Impact test of the composite specimens was conducted using a Charpy Impact test according to ASTM D 6110. The morphology of impact fracture surface was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that the impact strength of the hybrid composite increased with the decrease of CaCO 3 particle size, and increasing the ratio of kenaf to CaCO 3. Interfacial bonding between the reinforcement (kenaf and CaCO 3) and epoxy resin matrix, the uniform dispersion of kenaf and CaCO 3 within the epoxy resin matrix are two crucial factors influencing the impact strength of the composite.