EFFECT OF FIBRE LENGTH AND FIBRE LOADING ON IMPACT, HARDNESS AND WATER ABSORPTION RESISTANCE OF LUFFA CYLINDRICA FIBRE REINFORCED POLYLACTIC ACID COMPOSITE
The increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly materials has driven the development of biopolymer composites reinforced with natural fibres. Among these, Luffa cylindrica has gained attention due to its lightweight, high cellulose content, and desirable mechanical properties, making it a promising alternative to synthetic reinforcements. Similarly, polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable polymer derived from renewable agricultural sources, exhibits broad application potential but suffers from brittleness and poor impact resistance. This study investigates the mechanical and physical properties of Luffa cylindrica-reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) composites, focusing on the effects of fibre length (1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm) and fibre loading (10% to 50%). Luffa cylindrica fibres were sourced from Maiduguri, treated with sodium hydroxide, and incorporated into PLA matrices using melt-mixing and hot compression techniques. The composites were characterized for impact strength, hardness, and water absorption according to ASTM standards. Results indicated that the impact strength of the composites decreased as filler loading increased, with the best performance observed at 30% loading for 1 mm fibres. Hardness increased with higher material content, with the 30% filler content of 1 mm fibre showing the highest hardness. Water absorption increased with both fibre length and filler content, with the 3 mm fibre composites displaying the highest water uptake. These trends were attributed to the fibre�s natural hydrophilicity and the increased surface area for water absorption. This study highlights the potential of Luffa cylindrica as a reinforcing agent in biodegradable PLA composites, particularly in enhancing hardness, though its addition reduced impact strength and increased water absorption. The findings suggest that while Luffa cylindrica fibres improve certain mechanical properties, modifications such as surface treatments may be necessary to optimize performance for industrial applications.
Authors : Bukar, M., Aji, I.S., Mshelia, Z.A. and Hammajam, A.A.
Category : Open Access Volume (Issue) : 10(2) Date Uploaded : 5th December 2024