Feasibility study on the use of carbonized cassava cortex as reinforcement in polymer-matrix composites

Abstract

The feasibility of using carbonized cassava cortex (CCCtx) as reinforcement in polymer-matrix composites was studied by experimental investigation of the composites’ mechanical properties. The cortex was raised to a temperature of 550°C to get it carbonized and was subsequently milled to powder form. The powder was sieved into particle sizes of 150, 300, and 600 μm. Polymer-matrix composite materials were produced from them using thermosetting resin. Analyses of the energy dispersive spectroscope spectrum and X-ray diffraction of the CCCtx were carried out. The carbonized particles’ surface morphology was revealed by electron microscopy. The thermogravimetric analysis was also carried out. The component samples produced were tested for tensile strength, flexural strength, compressive strength, impact strength, elastic modulus, and hardness. For the evaluation of the composites, the particle sizes effect and wt% composition on the properties were studied and used as the criteria. The results showed that CCCtx can be used in reinforcing polyester resin.