PENGARUH PERLAKUAN PERMUKAAN SERAT MANILA TERHADAP SIFAT MEKANIK BAHAN KOMPOSIT DENGAN MATRIKS RESIN POLYESTER

Abstract

In this paper the synthesis and mechanical properties of composite materials with reinforcing hemp and matrix resin polyester were discussed. The objective of this research is to know the effect of alkali treatment to the mechanical properties of continuous hemp reinforced polyester composite. The hemp was immersed in the alkali solution (10% NaOH for 0, 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes. And then, it was washed using fresh water and dried naturally. The matrix used in this research is unsaturated polyester resin 157 BQTN with MEKPO hardener 1%. Mechanical properties, tensile strength and elasticity modulus of the composite materials are determined by performing tensile tests, exactly bending strength and bending modulus of the composite materials are determined by performing bending tests using a universal testing machine TM 113 30 KN. Result of the experimental show that of the mechanical properties (tensile strength, modulus elasticity, bending strength, and bending modulus) composites materials have the optimum values for 60 minutes treated fiber.