Comparative study of effect of sisal fibres in powder and short form on the mechanical properties of polypropylene

Abstract

Natural Fibres usage has been increased as reinforcement in polymers in recent past due to their renewability, low cost and lightweight. Only a few studies have been carried out to evaluate the mechanical properties of the powdered form of the natural fibre composite. In this study, Natural Fibre Composites (NFCs) are prepared by reinforcing sisal fibre in powders and short form in Polypropylene. NFCs are prepared for 10, 20, 30 and 40 percent of fibre weight fractions using hot compression moulding and their mechanical properties were evaluated. The maximum tensile strength is observed at 10 percent fibre weight. i.e 17.73?MPa for short fibre. The maximum impact strength is observed in powdered form composite i.e. 186?J/m. The flexural strength of composites is comparable in both forms. Through SEM analysis, the random distribution of fibre in the matrix was detected. The short fibre composites were failed to withstand excess load mainly due to the fibre pull-out. The powdered form can act as excellent reinforcement for Polypropylene and can be manufactured through hot compression moulding with same cost.