Development of hybrid plantain fiber/calcite particles reinforced polyvinyl chloride biocomposites for automobile applications

Abstract

This study aimed to develop environmentally friendly PVC composites for automotive by incorporating plantain fiber (PF) and calcite particles (CP) as reinforcements. Different weight percentages of PF and CP (ranging from 3% to 15%) were utilized. The mixtures underwent compounding and compression molding at 150°C for 10 min. The mechanical and thermal properties of the resulting composites were analyzed, and their fracture surfaces were examined using SEM. Results indicated that the inclusion of these reinforcements significantly enhanced the properties of the composites compared to unreinforced samples, with the hybrid composites exhibiting the best performance. Optimal compositions were identified within the range of 6-8 wt% PF and 3-4 wt% CP. The composite containing 6 wt% PF/3 wt% CP showcased the highest ultimate tensile strength (63.77 MPa), optimum elongation at break, and best insulating property (0.24 W/Mk). The composite with 8 wt% PF/4 wt% CP demonstrated the highest tensile modulus (4.79 GPa), flexural strength (91.35 MPa), and flexural modulus (8.2 GPa). Impact strength peaked at 10 wt% PF/5 wt% CP, reaching 107.02 J/m2. These findings indicate that the developed hybrid reinforced biocomposite compositions hold great promise for various automotive applications, including instrument panels, sun visors, headlining, seals, floor coverings, and protective strips