Title : Influence of fiber content and length on the mechanical characteristics of biocomposites comprising natural rubber reinforced with sansevieria cylindrica fibers
Abstract:
Utilized Sansevieria cylindrica fibers as a reinforcing component within a natural rubber matrix. It is crafted various biocomposite samples with differing fiber lengths and loadings, employing a compression molding process and vulcanizing technique while maintaining a temperature of approximately 150 °C. The results revealed notable mechanical properties for the optimal composite sample, characterized by a tensile strength of 10.44 MPa, a modulus elongation at break of 2.36 MPa, a tear strength of 627.59%, and a maximum hardness of 76.85 Shore A. These exceptional properties were achieved when using 6 mm fibers at a loading of 20 wt% within the composite. The improved properties can be attributed to the robust interfacial adhesion established between the Sansevieria cylindrica fibers and the natural rubber matrix. We further examined and analyzed the failure mechanisms at the interfaces of these biocomposites using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM images confirmed that the Sansevieria cylindrica fibers were enveloped by a larger amount of natural rubber, facilitating strong interfacial bonding between the fiber and matrix. The optimal composites developed in this study hold great potential for applications in general-purpose abrasion-resistant conveyor belts.
