Hibiscus cannabinus fiber/PP based nano-biocomposites reinforced with graphene nanoplatelets

• Main Authors: Idumah, C. I., Hassan, A.
• Format: Article
• Published: Taylor and Francis Inc. 2017
• Subjects: TP Chemical technology
• Online Access: http://eprints.utm.my/id/eprint/76521/; https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85013124174&doi=10.1080%2f15440478.2016.1277817&partnerID=40&md5=b0d0764e41814c88a1775d2d16a3014f

The essence of the present research is based on reinforcement mechanism of hibiscus cannabinus fiber (KF) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) on mechanical and thermal properties of hybrid hibiscus cannabinus fiber/polypropylene (PKMG 1–5 phr) nano-biocomposites. TGA results revealed inclusion of KF and GNP enhanced charring and thermal stability of the bio-nanocomposites. DSC analysis revealed improved melting and crystallization temperatures of the materials. Flexural modulus significantly increased on inclusion of 20 wt.% kenaf fiber and 5 phr GNP. XRD studies confirmed KF and GNP induced nucleation of β-crystals of PP which improved toughness and impact properties of the nano-biocomposites especially at 3 phr.