Processing of cardanol resin with CSP using compression molding technique

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis paper exhibits the synthesis of a cardanol-based polymeric resin (CR) from cashew nut shell liquid as a composite matrix along with coconut shell (CS) as reinforcement utilizing poly-condensation technique. In the proposed method, the provincially gathered CSs are dried in an oven in order to expel dampness content. With an average diameter ranging from 25 to 75 µm, the dried CSs are then grated into small particles and in the compression molding method these particles are made into two sets for untreated and treated (5% NaOH) biocomposites with varying concentration of 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%. The thermal properties are assessed by thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) whereas the chemical formulation is reckoned by the assistance of Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy. The microstructures of the composites are portrayed by scanning electron microscopy to scrutinize the morphological and surface characteristics of CR and CS. The TGA and DTA results revealed that the treated CS particle at 25 and 75 µm thermal stability (484° and 459°) with untreated CS particle (466°C and 449°C) at 30% particle loading condition. The 25-µm CS particles are thermally more stable than 75 µm particles. Veritably it is unveiled that, a polymeric matrix composite combined with untreated and treated CS particles might be a good alternative remembering the ultimate goal to nab an eco-friendly product.