Mechanical properties and dynamic mechanical analysis of thermoplastic‐natural‐rubber‐reinforced short carbon fiber and kenaf fiber hybrid composites

Abstract

The hybridization of thermoplastic natural rubber based on carbon fiber (CF) and kenaf fiber (KF) was investigated for its mechanical and thermal properties. Hybrid composites were fabricated with a melt-blending method in an internal mixer. Samples with overall fiber contents of 5, 10, 15, and 20 vol % were subjected to flexural testing, and samples with up to 30% fiber content were subjected to impact testing. For flexural testing, generally, the strength and modulus increased up to 15 vol % and then declined. However, for impact testing, higher fiber contents resulted in an increment in strength in both treated and untreated composites. Thermal analysis was carried out by means of dynamic mechanical analysis on composites with 15 vol % fiber content with fractions of CF to KF of 100/0, 70/30, 50/50, 30/70, and 0/100. Generally, the storage modulus, loss modulus, and tan d for the untreated hybrid composite were more consistent and better than those of the treated hybrid composites. The glasstransition temperature of the treated hybrid composite was slightly lower than that of the untreated composite, which indicated poor damping properties. A scanning electron micrograph of the fracture surface of the treated hybrid composite gave insight into the damping characteristics.

Shape memory and thermo-mechanical properties of shape memory polymer/carbon fiber composites

“…The SMP composites were then formed by the backbones of the TPI attacked by the functionalized functional groups of carbon fiber and the TPI matrix bonded easily to the rough carbon surface. This effect was confirmed in the previous studies [36,37]. In the 9 wt%, 11 wt% and 13 wt% specimens, a rough surface and large deformation appear between the SMP matrix and the carbon fibers.…”

Physical and Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene-Wood-Carbon Fiber Hybrid Composites

“…Few studies have been conducted on the hybridization of WPCs. Anuar et al (2008) studied the hybridization of thermoplastic natural rubber reinforced with CFs treated with sulfuric acid and kenaf fiber. Composites were formed with a melt-blending method in an internal mixer.…”

Mechanical properties and environmental stress cracking resistance of rubber toughened polyester/kenaf composite

“…The production of synthetic fibres, such as glass, aramid and carbon fibres, are energy-intensive and are petroleum based. Kenaf, Hibiscus cannabinus L. fiber is obtained from renewable resources, which is biodegradable, environmentally friendly and offer CO 2 neutral life cycle [2]. The most rapidly expanding application for kenaf at present is as reinforcement in composites.…”