DOI: https://doi.org/10.55373/mjchem.v25i5.201

Keywords: Cantala fiber; CNTs; mechanical properties; composite

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of alkali treatment and multi-fraction on tensile strength, flexure, modulus of elasticity, SEM, and water absorption in composites reinforced with carbon nanotubes. The fibers were extracted manually from 9 months old cantala leaves. 6 wt% sodium hydroxide and distilled water were prepared to soak the fiber for 6 hours. The fibers were dried in the open air for 72 hours and put in an oven for 6 hours at 60 oC. Carbon nanotubes (CNT) were mixed with unsaturated polyester (UPRs) with a composition of 5% by weight and stirred using a magnetic stirrer with a rotational speed of 250 r.p.m, at a temperature of 40 oC, for 30 minutes. Composite molding uses a vacuum infusion process system. The results showed that the alkaline treatment of the fiber increased the tensile and flexural strength. Morphologically, the fiber is cleaner because it has been removed from hemicellulose, pectin and other amourphus. The addition of CNT to the composite is able to close the holes in the composite so that its strength increases. Water absorption shows that the fiber has not been alkaline, it absorbs more water.