Thermal Modulus Evaluation of Arenga pinnata Fibre Reinforced Epoxy Composite: Effect of Moisture Absorption

Abstract

This paper presents the effect of moisture absorption towards thermal modulus evaluation of Arenga Pinnata fibre reinforced epoxy composite. The specimens are produced by hand lay-up method for practically with the ratio of combination of fibre with epoxy and hardener. The fibres were treated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) prior the composites fabrication. Then, it were submerged in the water for moisture absorption and left for 8 days, 16 days and 30 days. The flexural modulus indicates there is reduction of elastic modulus values over the submerged period. Thermal analysis depicted by storage modulus curve showed the submerged specimens were not affected too much as compared to the control specimens. In fact, their performances were remaining the same across the temperature across from-10°C to 100°C. It is suggested from the experimental result that Arenga Pinnata fibres have a potential prospect as fibre reinforcement composites in many application.