The effect of filler loading on mechanical properties of kenaf core fiber filled polypropylene composite: Tensile properties

Abstract

This work was aimed to study the composite of thermoplastic polypropylene (PP) and kenaf core fiber (KCF). More specifically, the effect of different KCF loading on mechanical properties of PP/KCF composite had been investigated. The fabrication of PP/KCF composite with filler loading of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 wt% was prepared by using co-rotating twin-screw extruder at temperature 180 ºC and rotor speed of 70 rpm. The mixing process then proceeded with compression molding at the same temperature to produce sheet composite, before the composite was cut into dumbbell specimens using a hydraulic press. All the samples were subjected to the tensile test to evaluate the mechanical properties of the composite. The results obtained showed that the increase in filler loadings increase tensile strength and modulus of the composite while decrease elongation at break. The highest tensile strength of composite recorded at 20 wt% of KCF loading, and the addition of more KCF after that resulting in a significant drop of tensile strength. To conclude, the mechanical properties of KCF reinforced polypropylene composite were influenced by filler loading.