This paper presents the effects of multi-walled carbon
nanotube (MWCNT) as reinforcing agent on some
properties of natural fiber/polypropylene composites.
In the sample preparation, MWCNT contents and fiber
types (bagasse stalk and poplar) were used as variable
parameters. The composites with different MWCNT
contents were fabricated by melt compounding in a
twin-screw extruder and then by injection molding.
The mass ratio of the wood flour to polymer was 40/60
(w/w). The mechanical properties of composites in
terms of tensile, flexural, and Izod impact strength
were evaluated. The morphology of the specimens was
characterized using scanning electron microscopy
(SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM)
techniques. Based on the findings of this study, it
appears that mechanical properties reached the maximum
when 2.5 wt% MWCNT were used. However,
addition of 3.5 wt% MWCNT could not enhance the
mechanical properties considerably. TEM micrographs
showed that at high level of MWCNT loading (3.5 wt%)
increased population of MWCNT leads to agglomeration
and stress transfer gets blocked. The mechanical
properties of composites filled with poplar fibers were
generally greater than bagasse stalk composites.