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The integration of sustainable components in automotive parts is in growing demand. This study involves the entire process, from the extraction of kenaf cellulosic fibers to the fabrication of automotive parts by applying injection molding (sample only) and Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) techniques. Fibers were pretreated, followed by moisture content analysis before composite fabrication. The composite was fabricated by integrating the fibers with polypropylene, maleic anhydride polypropylene (MAPP), unsaturated polyester, and epoxy resin. Mechanical tests were done following ASTM D5083, ASTM D256, and ASTM D5229 standards. The RTM technique was applied for the fabrication of parts with reinforced kenaf long bast fibers. RTM indicated a higher tensile strength of 55 MPa at an optimal fiber content of 40%. Fiber content from 10% to 40% was found to be compatible with or better than the control sample in mechanical tests. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images showed both fiber-epoxy-PE bonding along with normal irregularities in the matrix. The finite element simulations for the theoretical analysis of the mechanical performance characteristics showed higher stiffness and strength in the direction parallel to the fiber orientation. This study justifies the competitiveness of sustainable textile fibers as a reinforcement for plastics to use in composite materials for automotive industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limitation in practical applications of biopolymer–fiber composite is mainly at higher temperatures. Thus, this study highlights the effects of fiber orientation on the durability of polylactic acid (PLA) reinforced with unidirectional (UD) continuous kenaf fibers at elevated temperatures. PLA and long kenaf fiber were fabricated using the hot-pressing method and stacked at fiber orientations of 0°, 45°, or 90°, relative to the tensile force. Dynamic mechanical analysis of the composites shows excellent anti-shock and temperature-resistant properties of the composite. UD PLA–kenaf composites with a 0° fiber orientation showed an ultimate tensile of ∼190 MPa and a flexural strength of ∼235 MPa, and the strength of the composite was able to retain up to 120°C temperature. The debonding behavior of the fiber from the matrix (fiber pull-out) supported by microscopy proved that interfacial failure occurs from the local strains, which initiate cracking. Interfacial failure and stress transfer have caused a remarkable reduction in composite strength when fibers were oriented at 90°. Hence, this current improvement in the performance of the UD PLA–kenaf fiber composite may potentially replace conventional synthetic fibers, especially for structural automotive applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kenaf fiber has recently garnered exponential interest as reinforcement in composite materials across diverse industries owing to its superior mechanical attributes, ease of manufacture, and inherent biodegradability. In the discourse of this review, various methods of manufacturing kenaf/Polylactic acid (PLA) composites have been discussed meticulously, as delineated in recently published scientific literatures. This paper delves into the chemical modification of kenaf fiber, examining its consequential impact on tensile strength and thermal stability of the kenaf/PLA composites. Further, this review illuminates the role of innovative 3D printing techniques and fiber orientation in augmenting the mechanical robustness of the kenaf/PLA composites. Simultaneously, recent insightful explorations into the acoustic properties of the kenaf/PLA composites, underscoring their potential as sustainable alternative to conventional materials have been reviewed. Serving as a comprehensive repository of knowledge, this review paper holds immense value for researchers aiming to utilize the capabilities of kenaf fiber reinforced PLA composites. • Kenaf fiber has gained popularity as a reinforcement in composite materials for its superior mechanical properties and biodegradability. • Recent manufacturing methods of kenaf/PLA composites and their effect on mechanical, thermal and acoustic properties have been investigated. • Chemical modifications enhance the mechanical and thermal properties of the kenaf/PLA composites, broadening the scope of application. • Advancements in 3D printing technologies contribute significantly to the mechanical properties of the kenaf/PLA composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work is to study the effect of kenaf volume content and fiber orientation on tensile and flexural properties of kenaf/Kevlar hybrid composites. Hybrid composites were prepared by laminating aramid fabric (Kevlar 29) with kenaf in three orientations (woven, 0o/90o cross ply uni-directional (UD), and non-woven mat) with different kenaf fiber loadings from 15 to 20% and total fiber loading (Kenaf and Kevlar) of 27-49%. The void content varies between 11.5-37.7% to laminate with UD and non-woven mat, respectively. The void content in a woven kenaf structure is 16.2%. Tensile and flexural properties of kenaf/Kevlar hybrid composites were evaluated. Results indicate that UD kenaf fibers reinforced composites display better tensile and flexural properties as compared to woven and non-woven mat reinforced hybrid composites. It is also noticed that increasing volume fraction of kenaf fiber in hybrid composites reduces tensile and flexural properties. Tensile fracture of hybrid composites was morphologically analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SEM micrographs of Kevlar composite failed in two major modes; fiber fracture by the typical splitting process along with, extensive longitudinal matrix and interfacial shear fracture. UD kenaf structure observed a good interlayer bonding and low matrix cracking/debonding. Damage in composite with woven kenaf shows weak kenaf-matrix bonding. Composite with kenaf mat contains the high void in laminates and poor interfacial bonding. These results motivate us to further study the potential of using kenaf in woven and UD structure in hybrid composites to improve the ballistic application, for example, vehicle spall-liner. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:1469-1476, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]