The effect of processing methods on the improvement of tensile properties of Random Ramie Fiber – Reinforced Tapioca Starch Biocomposites

Abstract

The disposal of Glass Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (GFRP) composites is becoming an environmental issue. To overcome the problem, biocomposites made of ramie fibers and tapioca starch might become an alternative to GFRP composites, due to their renewable properties, environmental friendly and easily degraded by nature. However, mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced starch based biocomposites are quite low due to high void content and poor fiber-matrix interface. In this research, the effect of the processing methods on tensile properties of tapioca starch - reinforced random ramie fiber biocomposites were studied. Ramie fiber reinforced tapioca starch biocomposites were fabricated by means of solution casting and compression molding technique. Random ramie fiber-reinforced tapioca starch biocomposites were succesfully made with the highest tensile strength and modulus elasticity of biocomposites were 18 MPa and 959 MPa respectively. The use of 1% NaOH alkalization process on ramie fiber increased tensile strength and modulus elasticity of biocomposites 64% and 54% respectively. Application of 120 °C compression temperature, increased tensile strength and modulus elasticity of biocomposites 18% and 74% respectively. Homogenous dispersion of ultimate fiber increased the tensile strength up to 91%. However, the addition of glycerol decreased the tensile strength and modulus elasticity for 46% and 39% respectively.