Abstract:
The possibility of utilization of the fibres made from kapok and balsa fruit fiber as reinforcement in polyester matrix composite was evaluated. The various composite formulations were prepared using 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10% fibres as the reinforcement. Tensile properties determination was performed with a Shimadzu Autograph AG-IS 1 kN (Japan) according to ASTM D882-75b at crosshead speed of 50 mm/min. Modulus of elasticity and elongation at break of the polypropilene resin matrix composite increase with the amount of kapok and balsa fibre up to a certain threshold and then begins to reduce with further increase in the amount of fibres. It was concluded that the kapok and balsa fibres are providing a reinforcement effect in polypropilene matrix composites.