Abstract
Natural cassava pulp was selected as a bio-based reinforcement in plastic polymer composites to enhance mechanical and wetting properties as an eco-friendly product. This study developed reinforced polypropylene (PP) composites with cassava pulp (CP) to improve mechanical properties and wetting ability. The PP/CP specimens were fabricated via twin screw extrusion and injection molding. Tensile and flexural testing were performed using a universal testing machine, with wetting properties characterized by a contact angle goniometer. Incorporation of 10 wt% cassava pulp showed enhanced tensile strength (4.85%), Young’s modulus (14.38%) and flexural modulus (23.30%) compared with neat polypropylene, indicating higher stiffness of natural fiber-filled composites. Micropatterns were formed on the composite surfaces using the hot embossing technique. A superhydrophobic surface was achieved by designing micropattern geometry. Water contact angle of micropatterned neat polypropylene and polypropylene/cassava pulp composites increased compared to material with no pattern. Micropatterns on PP/CP composite surfaces can be used to develop new functional materials with high mechanical and superhydrophobic properties.
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