The effect of filler content and size on the mechanical properties of unsaturated polyester/coconut empty fruit shell and fiber composite

Abstract

Unsaturated resin was reinforced using coconut empty fruit shell (CEFS) floor and coconut fruit fiber (CFF). Each reinforced composite was tested for different temperature (50 – 700C), baking time (1 – 5hrs), particle sizes (150, 300, 355, 500 and 850 microns) and percentage composition (5 – 25%). For each reinforced composite compressive and tensile strengths were tested as a function of particle size, baking temperature, baking time and percentage compositions. Result shows that maximum reinforcement was attained by particle size of 150 microns when subjected to various conditions. The compressive strength of the composite baked between 50 – 700C and between 1 – 5hrs revealed an increase in strength up to 25% composition by weight of filler at 700C and for 5hrs. After 25% composition, there was a drop in compressive strength. Tensile strength increased with increase in percentage composition.