Plant-Derived Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites: The Impact of Compatibilizer on the Fundamental Characteristics and Degradation Properties

Year : 2025 | Volume : 15 | Issue : 01 | Page : 27 37
    By

    Haydar U. Zaman,

  1. Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, National University of Bangladesh and Institute of Radiation and Polymer Technology, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, P.O., Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract

By using compression molding, unidirectional polypropylene (PP) composites reinforced with banana fiber were created both with and without the use of stearic acid (SA) as a coupling agent. Four filler loading levels (10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% by weight) were employed during the composite manufacturing process, using raw banana fiber. The resulting composites underwent mechanical testing (tensile, bending, and impact characteristics). The ideal combination of mechanical properties was found in 30% fiber-reinforced composites, depending on the fiber loading. To improve its compatibility with the polymer matrix, optimized banana fiber underwent a chemical treatment using SA. When compared to the raw composites, SA-treated banana fiber-reinforced composites produced superior mechanical properties. Scanning electron micrographs of the tensile fractured samples revealed better adhesion between banana and PP matrix upon treatment with SA, which provided additional information regarding the fiber-matrix adhesion. Investigations were also conducted into the composites’ water uptake and weathering simulation tests. Unidirectional PP composites reinforced with banana fibers were developed using compression molding, with and without SA as a coupling agent. Four filler loadings (10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% by weight) were used, and mechanical tests revealed that composites with 30% fiber loading had optimal properties. Chemical treatment of banana fibers with SA improved fiber-polymer matrix compatibility, resulting in enhanced mechanical performance compared to untreated fibers. SEM analysis confirmed improved fiber-matrix adhesion with SA treatment. Additionally, the composites were evaluated for water absorption and weathering resistance, providing insights into their durability.

Keywords: Banana fiber, polypropylene, composite, stearic acid, mechanical properties

[This article belongs to Journal of Materials & Metallurgical Engineering ]

How to cite this article:
Haydar U. Zaman. Plant-Derived Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites: The Impact of Compatibilizer on the Fundamental Characteristics and Degradation Properties. Journal of Materials & Metallurgical Engineering. 2025; 15(01):27-37.
How to cite this URL:
Haydar U. Zaman. Plant-Derived Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites: The Impact of Compatibilizer on the Fundamental Characteristics and Degradation Properties. Journal of Materials & Metallurgical Engineering. 2025; 15(01):27-37. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jomme/article=2025/view=197624


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 15
Issue 01
Received 22/11/2024
Accepted 21/12/2024
Published 02/01/2025
265

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