Effects on Physical and Mechanical Properties of Thermochemical Treated Kenaf (Hibiscus Cannabinus) Fibres Composite Board

Abstract

In this study, physical and mechanical properties of high density kenaf (hibiscus cannabinus) fibreboard (HDKF) were evaluated. Thermochemical treated kenaf fibres were treated with three different temperatures that were 100oC, 130oC and 150oC in laboratory autoclave. The physical properties (thickness swelling and water absorption) and mechanical properties (static bending and internal bonding tests) were tested according to British Standards. The results showed that the thermochemical treatment was effective to reduce thickness swelling (TS) and water absorption (WA). Since the static bending test modulus of rupture (MOR) was reduced, whereas modulus of elasticity (MOE) was increased up to 130°C of treatment than started to drop when treated with 150°C of temperature. For internal bonding test results showed some improvement when treated with thermochemical treatment.