Optimization of Unsaturated Polyester Resin Matrix Composite Materials Reinforced Banana (Musa Balbisiana) Fronds Composition Towards Tensile Test

Abstract

This study aims to find out how the physical and mechanical properties of banana tree frond fibers are strengthened by a polyester matrix with various variations of fiber fractions. The study began by making three types of specimens with differences in volume fractions, namely 6% fiber + 94% matrix, 9% fiber + 91% matrix and 12% fiber + 88% matrix with the hand lay – up method. The results of making composites are carried out physical properties testing in the form of density testing, water absorption and thick development and mechanical testing with tensile tests. The results of the physical properties test show that the average density value of each volume fraction variation is above the JIS A509 – 2003 standard. The water absorption value and the thick development of the three fraction variations are still below the maximum limit. While in mechanical properties testing, the highest tensile strength value was obtained at a volume fraction of 12% fiber + 88% matrix with an average tensile strength value of 37.28 MPa.