Kenaf core and bast loading vs. properties of natural rubber latex foam (NRLF)

Abstract

Natural rubber latex foam (NRLF) based on kenaf core and bast were prepared by using the Dunlop method. Mechanical properties, foam density, compression, hardness, thermal aging, and microstructural characteristics of kenaf-filled NRLF with different loadings of kenaf core and bast were analysed. The tensile strength, elongation at break, and compressive strength of kenaf bast filled NRLF samples decreased as the content of kenaf was increased. However, the modulus at 100%, hardness, and density of NRLF increased with increasing kenaf contents. The addition of kenaf core into NRLF increased the swelling percentage and aging of the foam compared to the bast. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results indicated that the fibrous kenaf bast had a stronger adhesion compared to the particulate kenaf core, resulting in higher tensile strength, elongation at break, and compression strength.