The influence of fibre orientation and chemical treatment on the performance of unsaturated polyester/chrysanthemum stem fibre composites

Chrysanthemum flowers are usually used for cultural and religious ceremonies however, the chrysanthemum stems are left for open burning or landfilling on many farmlands. These stems are one of the sources of agricultural waste in Malaysia that cause environmental impacts. In order to reduce the impact of chrysanthemum stems, this research study has utilised these valuable chrysanthemum stems in producing a new polymer composite. Hence, the present research study focuses on the preparation of non-woven and woven chrysanthemum stem fibre (CSF) reinforced unsaturated polyester (UPs) composites via simple hand lay-up method. The results showed the tensile properties (tensile strength and modulus of elasticity) of woven fibre filled UPs was higher than non-woven fibre filled UPs composites. However, non-woven fibre filled UPs presented higher water absorption and elongation at break as compared to woven fibre filled UPs composites. Furthermore, bleaching treatment with hydrogen peroxide is carried out in order to improve the tensile properties and water resistance of UPs/CSF composites. The functional groups of unbleached and bleached fibres were analysed using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis. Some lignin, hemicellulose and impurities of CSF have been removed after the bleaching treatment on CSF, as proven by FTIR results.