Development and Characterization of False Banana (Enset) Fiber Reinforced Composite Material

Abstract

Recently, the awareness of environmental issues has controlled the use of materials with eco-friendly attributes. Today, we must decide what we will utilize and serve to offer a better world for future generations. Resource preservation and degradation become issues when resources and products reach the end of their useful lives. Biodegradable products manufactured from renewable resources address these issues. This research aims to develop a biodegradable resource of false banana (Enset) fiber as reinforcement with polyester resin composite material by hand lay-up method manufactured at room temperature. The mechanical and physical properties were investigated such as tensile, flexural, impact strength, and water absorption. In composites, the fiber orientations were 0°, 90°, 45°/45°, 0°/90°, and Chopped, at 40% fiber volume fraction. The sample’s production process was performed successfully. A chopped sample is an easier manufacturing process relative to the other. The study shows that fiber orientation has a significant effect on mechanical properties. The samples were immersed in distilled water until a saturation point.

Keywords

• composite
• fiber
• matrix
• manufacturing
• reinforcement
• saturation