Effect of Calcium Carbonate on the Tensile and Density Properties of Kenaf/Polyester Hybrid Composite

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) was a plant belonging to the Malvaceae family. Kenaf was a natural fiber that has attracted researchers to explore its properties as reinforcement materials in composites. In addition, calcium carbonate (CC) particle can also improve the mechanical properties of composite. The aim of this study was to describe the fabrication of calcium carbonate particle reinforced kenaf/polyester hybrid composite. The hybrid composites were prepared using hand lay-up process with different particle loading (2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10% and 20% by weight). The hybrid composites were tested for tensile strenght using ASTM D368 standard. The highest tensile strength were showed for 5% wt calcium carbonate reinforced kenaf/polyester hybrid composite in this investigation. It was also observed that the density for hybrid composite decreased as the particle content increased.