Synthesis and Characterization of Mechanical and Physical Properties of False Banana (ʾənäsätə) Fiber Reinforced Composite Material

Abstract

The use of environmentally friendly materials has recently been promoted due to increased awareness of environmental issues. To offer a better world for future generations, we must decide what we will utilize and serve today. As resources and products reach the final stage of their usability, the preservation of remaining materials and reduction of degradation emerge as challenges that must be addressed. Biodegradable materials produced from recyclable resources deal with these issues. This study intends to make a recyclable resource of false banana (ʾənəsätə) fiber as reinforcement with polyester resin composite material produced by hand lay-up method at room temperature. The mechanical and physical properties of the produced sample were investigated.  include tensile, flexural, impact strength, and water absorption. The fiber surface was treated with NaOH alkaline in distilled water solution. In composites, the fiber orientations were 0^o, 90^o, 45^o/-45^o, 0^o/90^o, and chopped, at 40% fiber volume fraction. The sample's manufacturing process was accomplished fruitfully. A chopped sample is a simpler production process compared to the other. As the result, 0^o fiber direction scored the highest tensile strength, which is 181.41MPa. In the flexural and impact strength test, a 90^o oriented fiber was observed with the highest value, which is 81.43 MPa and 9.75 joules, respectively. The samples were immersed in distilled water until saturated. The highest percentage of water absorption was 45^o/-45^o oriented fiber. Many researchers have recently shown interest in natural fiber composites material for aerospace and automotive applications, such as aircraft radomes and interior cabin components, as well as remarks on natural fiber composites' future trends and problems. This article provides readers with a positive perspective and piques industry players' interest in the potential of using natural fiber composites in aerospace applications to improve current aerospace material performance, particularly in terms of lightweight and environmental sustainability.

Keywords: Composite, Fiber, Manufacturing, Matrix, Reinforcement, Sustainability