Impact-Specific Essential Fracture Work of Banana Fiber Reinforced Low-Density Polyethylene Composites

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the behavior of banana fiber (BF)-low-density polyethylene (LDPE) composite fracture toughness. The LDPE pellets are transformed into powder form which is then functioned as a matrix reinforced with banana fiber (BF). The composites were formed by injection molding techniques which are followed by atmospheric-pressure annealing at 90°C for 24 hours. The composite fracture toughness behavior was evaluated using the essential work of fracture (EWF) approach. The results show that fracture toughness which is characterized by essential fracture work (we) value increases by the presence of BF up to 5 wt.%. However, the we value starts to decrease in the composite with BF content of 6 wt.%. There is a mismatch about the phenomenon of non-essential fracture work. Stress-whitened zones can be seen and observed but non-essential fracture work based on curves is a negative value.