Mechanical properties of nanoclay-filled kenaf and hybrid glass/kenaf fiber composites

Abstract

Kenaf is a natural fiber that can be used as an alternative reinforcement material due to its excellent properties such as low density and high strength. In this study, kenaf composites were developed by hybridizing with glass fiber and modified with nanoclay to enhance its mechanical properties. The woven type of glass fiber was placed on top and bottom of the kenaf composite. Three different percentages of nanoclay contents, i.e. 1 wt%, 3 wt%, and 5 wt% were modified with epoxy resin to fabricate nanoclay-filled Kenaf (KFRP) and nanoclay-filled hybrid Glass/Kenaf (GKFRP) composites. The composites were prepared by dispersing nanoclay into epoxy using the three-roll mill machine, and the kenaf fiber was wound using filament winding machine. The flexural test and tensile test in longitudinal (0°) and transverse (90°) fiber direction were performed to study the effect of hybridizing glass fiber and adding nanoclay into KFRP composites. The results show that hybridization of kenaf fiber with glass fiber enhanced flexural and tensile properties in both fiber directions. The addition of 1 wt% and 3 wt% nanoclay also improve the tensile and flexural properties of KFRP composites; however, the addition of 5 wt% nanoclay reduces the mechanical performance of composites.