Science Get Journal
Vol 3 No 2 (2026): April, 2026

Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Natural Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites for Structural Applications

Andi Haslinah (Universitas Islam Makassar, Indonesia)
Ikhsan Pangestu (Universitas Negeri Padang, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 May 2025

Abstract

This study systematically investigates the thermal and mechanical properties of seven natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites   jute, kenaf, sisal, bamboo, flax, coir, and hemp  incorporated into epoxy, polyester, and polypropylene matrices at 30 wt% fiber loading. Composites were fabricated via hand lay-up and compression molding, with fiber surfaces treated using alkali (NaOH) to improve fiber–matrix adhesion. Bamboo/epoxy composites achieved the highest tensile strength (201.3 MPa) and glass transition temperature (Tg = 147.8°C), reflecting improvements of 194% and 25% over neat epoxy, respectively. NaOH treatment significantly reduced fiber pull-out and void content, confirming improved interfacial bonding. All composites reduced the coefficient of thermal expansion by 32–55% relative to neat epoxy, enhancing dimensional stability. These findings position bamboo/epoxy and jute/epoxy composites as viable eco-friendly alternatives for lightweight non-primary structural components in building, automotive, and transportation applications.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

science

Publisher

Subject

Biochemistry, Genetics & Molecular Biology Chemistry Mathematics Physics

Description

A Peer Reviewed Research Science Get Journal e-ISSN: 3062-6595 Science Get Journal is an Open Access and Anonymous Reviewer/Anonymous Author journal. The field of Science is a vehicle for scientific communication in the field of Science which covers the cross-fields of Mathematics, Physics, ...