Fabrication and investigation of thermal, mechanical, and morphological properties of novel vetiver/rattan fiber-reinforced polylactic acid hybrid composites

Abstract

The physical, thermal, mechanical, and morphological characteristics of non-hybrid and hybrid composites reinforced with vetiver (VF) and rattan fiber (RF) in a PLA matrix were investigated in this work. To achieve this, five types of composites were created: three hybrids and two non-hybrids, using twin-screw extrusion and push-and-fit injection molding machines. The physical properties, such as density and porosity, were examined. The mechanical properties of the composites, including flexural, tensile, compressive, and impact strengths, were also assessed, along with their thermal properties, which were analyzed through thermal conductivity. In addition, the composite's chemical composition was studied through FTIR and XRD. An increase in density with the addition of RF and VF fibers was noticed. VF50-RF50 hybrid composite exhibits the highest density with the lowest porosity. Improved crystallinity was obtained in the RF-PLA composite. RF/PLA composite revealed Young's modulus of 2257.45 MPa and maximum tensile strength of 29.95 MPa, flexural strength of 60.56 MPa. Among the hybrid composites, the VF50-RF50 composite exhibits very balanced properties with 23.89 MPa tensile strength, 2038.3 MPa Young's modulus, 48.21 MPa of flexural strength, and 0.66 W/mk thermal conductivity, which is the highest among all the fabricated composites. Rattan-vetiver-PLA composites can be a better alternative in manufacturing lightweight furniture and partition boards. Highlights: A novel hybrid composite was prepared. Improved physical and mechanical properties in rattan/vetiver-PLA composites. VF50-RF50 hybrid composite shows the lowest void content of 1.02%. RF/PLA composite shows the highest tensile and compressive strength of 29.95 MPa and 186.52 MPa. Research suggests potential in eco-friendly furniture, kitchenware, and load-bearing furniture components.