nanoclay/kenaf/polyester hybrid composites: synergistic effects on energy absorbance

The brittleness of thermosetting based polymer composites has been an ongoing challenge due to the inherent properties of the matrix and the issues at the filler/polymer interface. the challenge is even more critical in the case of composites filled with natural fibers. this research shows how the use of long continuous natural kenaf together with nanoclay enjoying from high aspect ratio and fewer interfacial defects and, thus, stress concentration favors energy the absorbance of polyester parts filled with 0-20 wt% of long continuous kenaf and 0-8 wt% of nanoclay. the results represented the synergistic effect of nanoclay and kenaf resulting in an overall improvement of 65% in energy absorbance with respect to the neat specimens and 20wt% kenaf parts. the observations further confirmed general positive effects of the addition of nanoclay into kenaf/polyester samples on the energy absorption.