Kenaf Performance in PP/EVA/Clay Biocomposite

Abstract In this study, laminated Kenaf nanocomposites made from Kenaf fiber, Polypropylene (PP), organoclay, and Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) are fabricated with the combination of hand-layup and compression moulding technique. The effect of Kenaf fiber on properties of PP/EVA/clay biocomposite is investigated. The comparisons are made between the composite reinforced with Kenaf fiber and the composite without Kenaf fiber in terms of mechanical and thermal conductivity properties. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) is carried out to examine the thermal mechanical properties of biocomposite samples. The surface fracture of laminated Kenaf nanocomposites is investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results verify that Kenaf fibers have great potential to be used as an alternative to inorganic mineral-based reinforcing fibers.