Investigation on oil palm fiber composite mechanical properties

Muhamad Syafiq, Md Najib (2013) Investigation on oil palm fiber composite mechanical properties. Project Report. UTeM, Melaka. (Submitted)

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Abstract

This research investigates the mechanical properties of oil palm fiber empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) composite. Polypropylene (PP) is used as the matrix and Maleic Anhydride Polypropylene (MAPP) as the coupling agent for the composite. Fibers were treated before compounding to remove natural waxes and other non cellulosic compounds to improve the composite’s mechanical properties. Five different fibre content of 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40% by mass were mixed with polypropylene and MAPP to form composites using Haake internal mixer and hot press machine. The MAPP is set to 3% for every composition. The composites were characterized by tensile test, flexural test and hardness test. Tensile test and flexural test of the composites were carried out using Universal Testing Machine while hardness test were carried out using Digital Shore Durometer. Young Modulus and hardness value increases when the fiber content is increased. In the tensile test and flexural test, results shows that the best composition of oil palm fiber reinforced with polypropylene is at 30% of fiber content.

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