Influence of Carbon Nanotube on Physical and Mechanical Properties of Vetiver Root Fiber-Reinforced Bioplastic Composites
2025
Kongkeaw, Pongsathorn | Pasangtiyo, Peerawit | Lumpai, Pichapa | Panjumlong, Onkanya
Development of sustainable bio-based materials from agricultural by-products represents a critical direction for addressing environmental challenges while supporting circular economy initiatives. This research investigates the influence of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on the physical and mechanical properties of vetiver root fiber-reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) bio composites. A composite formulation with a 90:10 ratio of PLA to vetiver root fibers was prepared with varying concentrations of CNTs (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10% by weight). Control samples of pure PLA, PLA with vetiver fibers only, and PLA with CNTs only were also fabricated for comparative analysis. The samples were characterized by tensile strength, flexural strength, density, water absorption, thickness swelling, and thermal stability. Results revealed that pure PLA exhibited the highest tensile strength (10.37±0.88 MPa), which decreased with increasing CNT content, reaching a minimum at 6% CNTs before slightly recovering at higher concentrations. This behavior was attributed to CNT agglomeration and interfacial incompatibility between hydrophobic CNTs and hydrophilic natural fibers. Similarly, flexural properties followed comparable trends, with lowest values at 6% CNTs. Physical properties showed that density increased with CNT content, while water absorption and thickness swelling peaked at 6% CNTs before decreasing at higher concentrations. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated enhanced thermal stability at higher CNT loadings due to the barrier effect and improved heat distribution. This research demonstrates the potential of CNT-reinforced vetiver root fiber bio composites as environmentally friendly materials with tailorable properties for various applications.
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