Mechanical Performance of Luffa Fiber Reinforced Polypropylene Composites using Injection Moulding

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the mechanical properties of polypropylene polymer matrix composites reinforced with luffa fibers. It also tries to reduce polypropylene content in the manufacturing process by incorporating natural fibers such as luffa. Natural fibers offer good mechanical qualities and are inexpensive. They have a high specific strength, are environmentally benign and are biodegradable. The fiber is first alkaline-treated and then heated on the surface in the sun. The fiber is then powdered using a ball milling technique and mixed with polypropylene in various weight proportions. The composite samples were prepared using the injection molding process. The prepared samples were tested for mechanical characteristics such as tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strength and hardness. The percentage increase are 8.32, 2.56, 23.07 and 7.73 respectively as compared with the control sample. The research demonstrates that adding the right amount of natural fiber with the polymer can significantly improve their mechanical properties. From the study, it is concluded that natural luffa fiber can be used to minimize the content of polymers in structural applications.