Correlation of Holding Time and Bottom Ash Particle Size to Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene Composite

Abstract

The impact of holding time and particle size of bottom ash on the mechanical properties of polypropylene composites has been investigated. The size of the used particle were 200-250, 250-300, and 300-350 mesh with the holding time variations were 0, 30, 60, and 90 minutes. The initial process of the bottom ash was cleaned with fresh and warm water, then drained and dried at a 120°C for 3 hours. In the making process of composites, the bottom ash was mixed into the polypropylene matrix by stirring at a speed of 20 rpm for 30 minutes. The results of this study showed that the highest composite strength values were obtained in composites with the particle size of 250-300 mesh. Tensile strength increased about 45% for composites without providing holding time (0 minutes), while the bending strength value increased significantly to 103% obtained on composites given a holding time of 30 minutes. The results of this study will be used as a basis for further research and hopes of getting better alternative engineering materials in the form of composites.