By: Haydar U. Zaman and Md. Abu Sayed
1Assist. Prof., Department of Physics, National University of Bangladesh Institute of Radiation and Polymer Technology, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, P.O. Box-3787, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
2*Assist. Prof., Department of Chemistry, National University College of Bangladesh
The usage of banana bunch fibers in polymer composite parts for the automotive, aerospace, and construction industries is growing. As people grow more aware of the danger of synthetic fibers, banana bunch fibers are being used in an increasing variety of sectors. It is important to recognize that humans depend on the Earth for survival, not the other way around. This understanding drives scientists and policymakers to seek alternatives to traditional materials, prioritizing environmentally friendly options for a more sustainable future. Better thermomechanical properties, less carbon dioxide emissions, ease of manufacturing, biodegradability and recycling potential, and improved compatibility with human health are just a few of the sustainable features that make banana bunch fibers superior to synthetic materials. As a result, fibers from banana bunches are frequently used to modify polymers. In this study, polypropylene (PP) composites reinforced with banana bunch fiber (BF) were fabricated using compression molding. In some applications, stearic acid (SA) was used as a coupling agent, while in others, it was not applied. Raw banana BF was used to construct composites with filler loading levels ranging from 10 to 40 weight percent. The mechanical properties of the resulting composites were evaluated through a series of tests. Composites reinforced with 30% fiber showed the best mechanical performance based on fiber loading. SA was chemically added to increase banana BF and boost its compatibility with the polymer matrix. When compared to the untreated composites, the mechanical properties of the banana BF-reinforced composites that underwent SA treatment were better. To gain a further understanding of the fiber-matrix adhesion, the researchers utilized scanning electron microscopy (SEM) on the tensile fractured samples. This technique provided detailed images to analyze the interaction between the fibers and the polymer matrix. These photos demonstrated how the SA treatment improved the banana bunch fiber’s adherence to the PP matrix. The composites were also examined for their moisture absorption capacity and their ability to simulate weathering conditions. These tests aimed to assess the durability and environmental resilience of the materials
Keywords: Composite, stearic acid, banana bunch fiber, polypropylene, mechanical properties
Citation:
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