The Effect of Filler Loading and Silane Treatment on Kenaf Core Reinforced Polyurethane Composites: Mechanical and Thermal Properties

摘要

This investigation was aimed to study the mechanical and the thermal properties behavior of kenaf core (untreated and treated with silane)-polyurethane composites. Three different types of silane coupling agent were used to treat kenaf core (KC) which were, trimethoxyphenylsilane (TMPS), vinyltrimethoxysilane (VTMS), and tetramethoxyl orthosilicate (TMOS). The concentration of silane was varied from 0 to 3%. Silanization of KC filler is measured by the weight percentage gain (WPG), scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. Kenaf core-polyurethane (KCP) composites were prepared using a one-shot process. Tensile, flexural and thermogravimetric analysis was carried out it to study mechanical and thermal properties of the KCP. Among the three types of silane, the most effective one for property improvement was TMPS. The results from TMPS showed tensile and flexural agreed to each other that TMPS was the suitable chemical to be used as a coupling agent for KC filler in the preparation of KCP composite.