Analisis Sifat Mekanik Komposit Cangkang Kelapa Sawit Matriks Resin Polyester

Abstrak

Palm kernel shell is a solid waste by-product of palm oil production that holds high potential as an alternative raw material in composite manufacturing. This study aims to investigate the effect of varying volumes of palm kernel shell (PKS) charcoal ash on the mechanical properties of composites based on Yukalac 157 BQTN-EX polyester resin, specifically tensile and bending strength. The composition ratios of PKS ash to resin used were 0%:100%, 20%:80%, 30%:70%, and 40%:60%. Mechanical testing was conducted in accordance with ASTM D638-01 for tensile testing and ASTM D790-92 for bending testing. The test results show that increasing the volume of PKS ash in the composite leads to a decrease in tensile and bending stress values. The highest tensile strength, 26.33 MPa, was obtained at the 0%:100% composition, while the lowest value, 8.69 MPa, was recorded at 40%:60%. Similarly, the highest bending stress of 49.39 MPa was also found at the 0%:100% composition, with the lowest value of 32.96 MPa at 40%:60%. The reduction in mechanical strength is attributed to weak bonding between the PKS ash particles and the resin matrix, as well as increased porosity within the composite. Nevertheless, the use of PKS charcoal ash demonstrates potential as an eco-friendly filler for certain composite applications.

Kata kunci

• Bending Test
• Composite
• Palm Kernel Shell
• Tensile Test