Evaluation of mechanical and morphological properties composite of Agel Leaf Fiber (ALF)-epoxy modified with carbon powder

Abstract

This research focuses on the successful development of Agel Leaf Fiber (ALF)-Epoxy composites added with Carbon Active Powder (CAP) and printed using the Vacuum Pressure Infusion (VAPRI) method. Considering the importance of determining the mechanical properties of composites as raw materials for making fishing boats, this research aims to determine the use of Agel Leaf Fiber (ALF) in polymer matrix composites. The composite morphology was analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and ImageJ software. The mechanical properties evaluated included Tensile Strength, Flexural Strength, and Hardness. The composite was prepared by incorporating CAP in varying volumes of 0 %, 10 %, and 30 % with a fixed ALF percentage of 40 %. The results showed that the addition of CAP significantly increased the tensile strength to 128.51 MPa, with 0.068 % elongation, 1787.39 MPa modulus of elasticity, and a hardness value of 75.2 HD. Furthermore, the addition of 10 % carbon exhibited a remarkable improvement in flexural strength, reaching 238.51 MPa. This improvement could be attributed to reduced porosity, resulting in enhanced bonding between ALF-CAP-Epoxy components. The flexural strength of the composite with the highest CAP content experienced a significant increase of 238.51 MPa. Thus, Agel leaf fiber has the potential to be used as a reinforcing material in the manufacture of composites and is applied in the manufacture of environmentally friendly fishing boat bodies