Storage Modulus Capacity of Untreated Aged Arenga pinnata Fibre-Reinforced Epoxy Composite

Abstract

Research on natural fibre is keeps on going due to their high strength and stiffness, natural availability, and environmental friendliness. In addition, they are also recyclable, renewable and low in raw material cost. This study was done to determine the performance of aging Arenga Pinnata fibre-reinforced epoxy composite (APFREC) on varying temperature. The specimens were aged from 0 to 90 days by using accelerated aging process and were subjected to dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and flexural modulus evaluation. The results have shown that specimens with lower aging days have higher storage modulus initially, that is at below 70 °C but as the temperature increase, its storage modulus drastically decrease in comparison to a more aged specimen. Result of storage modulus at low temperature is similar flexure modulus evaluation. The research indicates that aging APFREC specimens has better thermal resistance.