Page 105 - Template Tesis UTM v2.0

All tested samples in this study were constructed using reinforcements and

matrix as summarized in Table 3.1. Natural fibres were supplied by Creative
Composite, United Kingdom. In this light, basalt, jute and flax fibres were completely

treated as received. Synthetic fibre of E-glass and epoxy resin were supplied by
Chemrex Corporation Sdn.Bhd, Selangor Malaysia. Epoxy resin DM15F3 (A) cured

with hardener DM15F3 (B) in the ratio of 5:1 was used as a matrix.

Table 3.1 Material properties

Constituent Arial weight Density Tensile strength Tensile Modulus
Material (g/m ) (g/cm ) (MPa) (GPa)
2
3
E-glass 600 2.50 2000 – 3500 63 ± 5

Basalt 200 2.70 571 ± 219 63 ± 18

Jute 290 1.46 400 ± 120 40 ± 10
Flax 200 1.50 500 ± 130 50 ± 10

Epoxy - 1.17 85 ± 10 10.5 ± 4

3.2 Fabrication of the Composite Laminates using VIP Process

Generally, this process starts with mould cleaning using mould release agent
to prevent the laminate from sticking and ensure the ease of de-moulding process after

curing. After buffing, dry fibres were laid onto the mould based on the laminate design
and configuration, and a spiral tube was placed nearby the fibre as a resin flow line

while the inlet and outlet ports were created and positioned properly to ensure the

permeability and wetting of the whole fibres with resin. Then, bagging film was used
to cover the whole preparation using sealant tape. This was done as it is very important

to ensure that there is no leakage during the bagging process and this can be monitored
using a leak detector. After that, the outlet port was connected to the resin catch port’s

inlet and the vacuum pump was connected to the catch port’s outlet. The vacuum pump

was used to remove the air in the cavity and consolidate the fibre.

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