A Study of the Feasibility of the Use of Lignocelluosic, Bagasse and Kenaf Fibers in the Manufacture of Fiber-Polypropylene Composites

In order to study the feasibility of the use of Lignocellulosic fibers in the manufacture of fiberpolymer
composites, two types of these materials namely, kenaf and bagasse were mixed with
polypropylene at 10,20,25 and 30 percent by weight. 2% MAPP was used as the compatibilizerand
1% DCP was used as the promoting interfacial agent. The results indicated that tensile strength,
elongation at break and impact energy application declined whereas tensile modulus and hardness
increased as compared with pure polypropylene. From the two filler types, kenaf fibers had better
improved properties of composite materials. But this difference was not significant. Due to
processing convenience and good dispersion in the polymer matrix of bagasse fiberes, use of this
material is recommended. Regarding a lack of significant difference in the reduction of properties
due to an increase in filler content from 10% to 30% and the increase in tensile modulus as well as
hardness, a 30% fiber content is recommended for application purposes.