Effect of kapok seed powder on mechanical and water intake properties of untreated kenaf fiber composites

Abstract

The use of a variety of natural materials in the reinforcing and filling components of hybrid composites has led to recent advancements in the field of composites, allowing for the achievement of the required attributes. Epoxy resin matrices filled with kapok seed extract and reinforced with unprocessed kenaf fiber were subjected to a battery of tests to determine their mechanical and water absorption capabilities. Hybrid composite material samples were made by varying the percentages of reinforcing (30, 25, 20, and 15 wt%) and filler materials (5, 10, 15, and 20 wt%) while keeping the epoxy resin content constant (65 wt%). All specimens were then processed according to ASTM standards when manufacture was complete. Results from experiments show that among four filler/fiber loading combinations, the one with 10 % kapok seed powder and 25 % untreated kenaf fiber gives the highest tensile (28.23 MPa), flexural (52.4 MPa), and impact strength (4.6 kJ/m2). For larger filler and lower fiber loading combinations, on the other hand, compression and swelling behaviour of the composites was shown to be reduced. It was found from this experimental study, restricted addition of kapok seed powder in untreated kenaf fiber and epoxy resin matrix greatly improves certain mechanical and water intake properties significantly.