Mechanical and Microstructure Characterization of Coconut Spathe Fibers and Kenaf Bast Fibers Reinforced Epoxy Polymer Matrix Composites

AbstractIn this present study, the natural fibers such as kenaf and coconut spathe are reinforced in polymer matrix by hand layup process. Alkali treated coconut spathe and kenaf bast fibers are uniformly dispersed with epoxy resin and cured using tri-ethylene tetra amine (TETA) at 250C. The weight proportion of the polymer matrix is maintained constantly 10% whereas the proportions of the fibers are altered within the composites. The mechanical properties like tensile, flexural, impact strengths are analyzed. Fracture analysis of fiber reinforced composites and the effect of alkali treatment on fibers are also observed using scanning electron microscope (SEM)