Effect of Immersion on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of rHDPE Composite with Cantala Fiber Reinforcement

WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) is a composite composed of wood particles or other lignocellulosic materials bonded using synthetic adhesives or other binders, through a hot pressing process. WPC can be used outdoors as walls, roofs, and panels. In outdoor applications, the mechanical properties of WPC are affected by the level of water absorption, moisture resistance, and ultraviolet resistance. Soaking in water media results in a decrease in the mechanical properties of the composite due to water diffusion. This study focused on the effect of immersionImmersion in aqueous media on the mechanical properties of the rHDPE/cantula fiber composite. Composites are made by extrusionExtrusion and hot pressing. Furthermore, the resulting composite was soaked in distilled water for 12 days. The effect of immersionImmersion on the mechanical and physical properties of the composite was investigated through bendingBending and SEM testing. The results of the bendingBending test showed a decrease in strength after aquadest immersionImmersion. SEM testing showed cracks on the surface of the specimen. The decrease in strength and cracking in the composite are caused by the diffusion of water into the fiber which weakens the bond between the fiber and the matrix.