Browsing by Author "Sapuan, S.M."
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Item Mechanical and Electrical Properties of Coconut Coir Fiber-Reinforced Polypropylene Composites(2007-02-08) Lai, C.Y.; Ahmad, M.; Dahlan, K.Z.H.M.; Sapuan, S.M.; Yahya, N.Natural Fibers have an outstanding potential as reinforcement inthermoplastics. The objectives of this experiment are to evaluate the suitabilityof producing Fiber composites using coconut coir fibers. This study deals withthe preparation of coconut coir composites by using compression technique inwhich good interfacial adhesion is generated by a combination of fiber modificationand matrix methods. Initially the coconut fibers were treated in order toimprove resin fiber interfacial bonding. The treatment agents used includedalkali, stearic acid, acetone, and potassium permanganate. The various reactionsbetween the modified fiber and polypropylene chains were used improve theinterfacial adhesion between the fiber and polymer using the new bond. Generally,composites that contain treated fiber have a higher tensile modulus andgreater flexural modulus than do untreated fiber composites. Typical mechanicaltests on strength, flexability, hardness, and dielectric were performed and theresults are reported.