PENGARUH ALKALISASI-LARUTAN POLIESTER DAN KELEMBABAN TERHADAP KEKUATAN GESER KOMPOSIT RAMI-POLIESTER

• Main Author: WIBOWO , HARYO
• Format: Final Project
• Language: Indonesia
• Online Access: https://digilib.itb.ac.id/gdl/view/10561
• Institution: Institut Teknologi Bandung

Natural fibers usage in composites is on the rise, but some weaknesses overshadow their potentials. One of the main obstacles for natural fibers is their hydrophilic nature. When used in composites, the water absorbed by fiber could lead to interface debonding. Another problem is the low natural fiber-matrix bonding quality in the interface. Fiber surface treatment, such as alkalization and polyester (matrix) coating, is a commonly used method to offset this problem. In this research, the effect of those fiber surface treatments towards the composites' interfacial shear strengths was observed, as well as their effect on the ramiepolyester composites environmental degradation resistance. Enviromental testing was done by placing the specimens inside a salt spray chamber which was set to RH 60 and RH 95. Then the specimens were mechanicaly tested using short beam test to determine their interfacial shear strength. SEM was used to visually inspect the fiber surface. Finally, image analyzer software was used to determine each specimen's void content. Short beam test results did not reveal any increase in treated composites' interfacial shear strength compared to untreated ones, all in range of 1,69-1,85 N/mm2. SEM images however, showed that the alkalization-polyester treatments worked. The reason for the aformentioned short beam test was the void content on the specimens, which varied at around 7,51%-20,34%. Composites' shear strength was found to fall at wet conditions. This was affected by the composite's void content and water absorption. After being exposed to high humidity (RH 95), untreated composites obtained only around 77% of their initial shear strength. Whereas treated composites were able to maintain 85-90% of their initial shear strength.