PENGARUH PENAMBAHAN SERBUK KALSIUM KARBONAT (CaCO3) TERHADAP SIFAT MEKANIS KOMPOSIT SERAT KENAF/EPOXY
Abstract
Composite utilization has continuously increased in various sectors, one of which is in automotive sector as vehicle body. The use of composites with synthetic fibers is considered to have an adverse effect on the environment, so an alternative is using composites reinforced with natural fibers. The use of natural fiber is intended to optimize the utilization of natural fibers which are abundant and environmentally friendly. This study aims to determine the mechanical properties of hybrid kenaf/calcium carbonate powder (CaCO3)-filled epoxy fiber composites.
Kenaf fiber of ± 6 mm long and 400 mesh calcium carbonate (CaCO3)-filled of epoxy matrix. Were used in this study in volume fraction variations of the kenaf fiber and CaCO3 powder content in this study are 20:10, 15:15 and 20:10 at total filler volume fraction of 70:30. Composites are then using hand lay up and press mold technique. Tests being carried out are fabricated the impact toughness (ASTM D 6110), hardness (ASTM E10), and fracture specimens were characterized using SEM and macrograph photos to determine the microstructure of the composite.
The results showed that an increase in CaCO3 powder content resulfed in decrease of impact toughness and hardness of composite materials. The optimum value of impact toughness and hardness was obtained at the ratio of the volume fraction of kenaf fiber to CaCO3 powder of 20:10% (0.00415 J/mm2 and a value of 50.00 BHN, respectively). Kenaf/epoxy composite with the addition of 10% CaCO3 powder is more effective to increase the impact toughness & hardness of the composites than those of kenaf/epoxy composites with the addition of 15 and 20% CaCO3 powder. It is shown from the results of the SEM test which shows that the distribution of fiber and CaCO3 are evenly distributed.