Characterization and properties of PP/NBRr/Kenaf composite with and without NaOH treatment

Abstract

In this research, because of availability, kenaf is choosing as natural fiber reinforcement with polymeric composites of PP/NBRr to produce new ideal of green composites. However, lack of good interfacial adhesion between natural fiber reinforcing fillers and polymer matrix is the most vital issues associated with composites. The surface modification using sodium hydroxide (NaOH) was carried out to modify the fiber properties. The mechanical, morphological and thermal properties of PP/NBRr/kenaf composites with different filler loading as well as NaOH treatment on kenaf filler performance on PP/NBRr composites were investigated. The composites were prepared by using heated two roll mill and mixed samples were then compressed using hot press. Generally, the results obtained indicated that composites with NaOH treated kenaf showed a better tensile strength, young’s modulus and elongation at break proved by morphological properties which is NaOH treated kenaf have a good attachment of kenaf in PP/NBR matrices. Then, thermal properties of NaOH treated kenaf in PP/NBRr matrices show improvement in thermal stability and thermal degradation compared to untreated kenaf. FTIR results showed the presence of NaOH treatment improved the intensity of OH groups thus enhance the interfacial adhesion between kenaf filler and PP/NBRr matrices.