Tensile and fire retardant properties of nanoclay reinforced Abaca/Polypropylene composite

Abstract

Natural fiber composites are frequently replacing the traditional polymers for their environment friendly properties, low cost and easily available raw material. The application of these materials in making the interior parts of automobiles and airplanes can reduce the weight of the structures. But a limitation is the risk of flammability of these materials in such applications. This study is an effort to manufacture an Abaca fiber reinforced Polypropylene (PP) composite material, filled with nano-clay as flame retardant materials, to be used in the automobile and aerospace applications. Abaca is a natural fiber with good mechanical strength. Effects of nano-clay addition on the strength and fire retardant properties have been studies.