Effects of nanoclay on tensile and flexural properties of pineapple leaf fibre reinforced phenolic composite

Phenolic based PALF/nanoclay hybrid composites was prepared by adding Montmorillonite (MMT) as filler at different loading (1%, 2% and 3%) by using hot press technique. Obtained results indicated that adding MMT in PALF/phenolic composites considerably improves the tensile and flexural strength and modulus. Tensile properties showed that the tensile strength increased after adding MMT though tensile modulus decreased. Flexural strength and modulus were enhanced after adding MMT up to 2%, further addition of MMT declined the properties. 2% MMT showed better tensile and flexural properties. 3% MMT/PALF hybrid composite showed no further improvement in tensile properties after 2% MMT, however the flexural properties were reduced. 3% MMT did not improved much maybe agglomeration accrued. PALF/nanoclay/phenolic hybrid composites revealed good mechanical properties that encourage to use for structural purposes.