Development and Characterization of Polyester Resin/Kenaf/Coconut Coir Reinforced Hybrid Composites
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Date
2024-10-22
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Published by Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
Abstract
The project begins with extracting and processing coconut coir and Kenaf fibers to obtain suitable reinforcement materials. These natural fibers are chosen for their desirable attributes, including low cost, lightweight nature, and environmental sustainability. The fibers are treated to enhance their compatibility with the polyester resin matrix, ensuring proper adhesion and minimizing moisture absorption The composites were developed using the Hand lay-up method involving the application of coconut coir and Kenaf fibers layer by layer onto a mold until the desired thickness of 5mm is attained using polyester resin as the matrix. A fixed load is applied to the top of the laminates and allowed to cure for 48 hours at room temperature. The resulting composite is assessed for mechanical and morphological examination. Preliminary results indicate the laminate Kenaf/coconut coir/Kenaf potential with the ultimate tensile stress of 22.667MPa, an impact strength of 74.7 J/m, and a water absorption rate of 5.98% as a lightweight yet eco-friendly material for automotive structural components, offering fuel efficiency benefits. Further research is needed to explore wider applications and commercialization prospects
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Keywords
Kenaf, Materials, Hybridization, Synthesis, Reinforcement
Citation
Adegbola, J. O., Alli, O. D., Akingbade, T. O., Abdulmojeed, M. O., Buhari, A. F., Ambali, I. O., & Joseph, O. P