Effect Of Morphology And Percentage Of Second Phase Content Of Coconut Coir On The Impact Strength Of Epoxy Resin Composites

Abstract

The morphology of the second phase used as reinforcement in the composite material can be in the form of particles (powder), short fibers, or charcoal ash which affects the mechanical properties of the composite material. There have been many studies conducted on the mechanical properties of composite materials. However, it is still rare to present research results in the form of a regression model. This study was intended to examine the effect of the percentage of second phase content on the epoxy resin matrix composite that was displayed by the regression model for different morphology. From this study, it was found that the content of coconut coir in the resin matrix composite material was proven increased the impact strength 200% to 400% compared to pure resin. The percentage content (x) of the second phase has been shown to affect the impact strength (Y) of the specimen for every second phase morphology, which are expressed in the regression models. The regression model for short fiber is: Y=0.0969x3-1.2367x2+4.8216x+1.3705, for charcoal ash is: Y=0.14789x3-1.6467x2+5.1311x+1.3705, and coconut coir powder is: Y=0.0757x3- 0 .9789x2+3.7955x+1.3705. The most optimum specimen in this study was a specimen with a second phase of 4 wt.% short fiber.