The optimisation of fabrication process for various chemically treated kenaf fibres in epoxy matrix composites

Abstract

The fabrication process is crucial since it determines the overall performance of the bio-composites. This study draws from the drawbacks of the natural fibre reinforced composites that are high voids content, low in surface interaction as well as low-stress distribution property especially using a simple mould-press process. The study explores the correlation between various fabrication processes of thermoset matrix towards the composites density, voids content, tensile and morphological properties. The study was carried out by mould pressed only 10 percent (%) filled composites by varying its curing temperatures, moulds type, fibres size and fibres chemical treatments afflicted. The results showed that 50 ˚C of curing temperature, in plunger mould-type, using 0.25 mm mesh size fibre are the optimised parameters. The coated 1:6 composite showing the optimum properties since it improves 6.5% density, 99.95% voids content, 38.1% water uptake and 33.2-50.6% of tensile properties. The suitable processing parameters and high coating penetration might contribute to the total improvement of the coated fibre composites properties. Since it influences the fibres compact-ability that leads to low voids formation as analysed on its fractured surfaces. In summary, a better understanding of the materials characteristic and fabrication processes are needed to obtain the optimum bio-composites performance.