ANALISIS PENGARUH PENAMBAHAN PARTIKEL MONTMORILLONITE PADA KOMPOSIT SERAT AREN

Abstract

The kitchen set is an essential component of a home. However, certain materials such as MDF have drawbacks, particularly in terms of heat resistance. Therefore, alternative materials with better heat resistance are needed, one of which is aren fiber composite with the addition of montmorillonite (MMT) particles for kitchen set applications. This study aims to investigate the effect of varying montmorillonite (MMT) particle additions on the mechanical properties and fire resistance of aren fiber-based composites for kitchen set applications. The volume fractions of MMT used were 3%, 6%, and 9%, with epoxy resin as the matrix and aren fiber as the reinforcement. Tests were conducted on impact toughness (ASTM D6110), flexural strength (ASTM D790) and burn rate (ASTM D635). The results showed that the addition of 3% MMT produced the highest flexural strength (60.5 N/mm2) and impact toughness (0.0224 J/mm²). Meanwhile, the addition of 9% MMT resulted in a slow burn rate (1.18 mm/min). The addition of MMT was proven to form a heat barrier layer within the composite structure, thereby slowing the spread of fire. These findings indicate that aren fiber composites with MMT additions, particularly at concentrations ranging from 3% to 9%, are environmentally friendly and heat-resistant materials suitable for kitchen set applications.

Keywords:

Komposite, Montmorillonite, Aren Fiber, Kitchen Set.