Thermal Stability and Decomposition Kinetics of Kenaf Hybrid Composites. Influence of Sol-Gel Silica on the Thermal Stability (PDF)

Research Paper (postgraduate) from the year 2023 in the subject Chemistry - Materials Chemistry, , course: Chemical Engineering, language: English, abstract: This study aims to understand how the combination of knaf fibers and sol-gel Silica affects thermal stability. The thermal stability and degradation kinetics of kenaf/sol-gel silica hybrids are important topics in the field of composite materials. Kenaf is a natural fiber derived from the bast of the kanaf plant and has high strength and biodegradability.

The thermal stability of kenaf fibers can be influenced by various factors, including fiber treatment and hybridization with other materials. The unidirectional kenaf hybrid composite possesses higher tensile strength, while the woven kenaf hybrid composite exhibits more consistent fatigue behavior. The hybridization with kenaf fibers improves the fatigue degradation coefficient of the composites.

Chemical changes in kenaf core binderless particleboards, such as degradation of hemicelluloses, lignin, and cellulose, affect the bonding performance and thickness swelling of the boards. Delignified wood, prepared using alkaline delignification methods, shows potential for creating novel functional materials due to its hydrophilic nature and possible sites for functionalization.