Study of mechanical properties of poly(Lactic ACID) (PLA)/ starch/ pineapple leaf fibre (PALF) composites /

Nur Athirah Sahira Binti Mustaffa, , ,

Study of mechanical properties of poly(Lactic ACID) (PLA)/ starch/ pineapple leaf fibre (PALF) composites / Nur Athirah Sahira Binti Mustaffa - 60 pages : illustrations ;

Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology

Final Year Report (Bachelor of Chemical Engineering ) -- Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah - 2025

Include bibliographical reference

This study investigates the mechanical properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/starch/pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) composites, driven by the increasing demand for environmentally friendly materials that can replace traditional synthetic composites. The use of natural fibers, such as PALF, offers advantages including low density, high specific strength, renewable resources, and biodegradability, making them ideal for sustainable applications. The research aims to compare the mechanical properties of PLA/starch/PALF composites with different PLA to PALF fiber loadings and starch ratios. Composite samples were prepared by blending PLA pellets and starch, incorporating alkali-treated PALF and untreated PALF, and forming the composites through solvent casting. Mechanical properties were evaluated using tensile tests, and morphological analysis was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results indicated that a 20 wt.% PALF fiber loading provided optimal tensile strength, with improved interfacial adhesion and fewer gaps between the matrix and fiber. The study demonstrates the potential of PLA/starch/PALF composites for various applications contributing to the development of sustainable and eco-friendly materials. By optimizing fiber loading and composition, the research advances our understanding of the mechanical performance and potential limitations of these composites, promoting resource efficiency and fostering innovation in the industry. The findings suggest that PLA/starch/PALF composites can enhance mechanical characteristics while supporting sustainability goals, making them a viable alternative to traditional synthetic composites.

THE0010696 (Local)


Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology--Dissertations


Universities and colleges--Dissertations
Theses--Dissertations

Perpustakaan Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah
26600 Pekan, Pahang Darul Makmur
Phone: +609 431 5063 (Gambang) / +609 431 5035 (Pekan)
Email: umplibrary@umpsa.edu.my

Connect With Us