The properties of kenaf/carbon/PMMA hybrid composites by adding chitosan nano and microparticles

Abstract

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)-based composites have been developed in biomedical applications with various reinforcement materials. Kenaf/carbon/PMMA hybrid composites were fabricated by adding chitosan nano and microparticles to characterize their flexural, compression, and water absorption properties affected by chitosan particles. Kenaf/PMMA, carbon/PMMA, and kenaf/carbon/PMMA composites were also studied. Chitosan nanoparticles (∼50 nm) and microparticles in medium molecular weight with concentrations of 1, 3, and 5 vol% were used. Kenaf fiber/carbon fiber ratio of 2:1 and a volume fraction of PMMA matrix of 70% were constant parameters. The flexural properties of the carbon/PMMA composite showed higher values than the others. Adding chitosan particles to kenaf/carbon/PMMA reduced the properties in nano-size or micro-size. However, the properties decrease with chitosan nanoparticle concentration, but not by microparticles. A maximum flexural strength showed a value of 133.57 MPa by adding 5 vol% microparticles. The chitosan nanoparticles tended to aggregate, leading to uneven dispersion within the matrix and decreasing mechanical properties. The compressive strength (126.66 MPa) of kenaf/carbon/PMMA with 5 vol% microparticles was obtained by a simulation applying the maximum force load of 94.5 N. Inversely, adding 5 vol% of chitosan particles showed the highest water uptake of less than 6%. These results would be valuable information in developing dental materials.