Characterization of green coconut fiber composites

Composites of polypropylene and green coconut fiber were prepared in an extruder with temperatures of 140 degrees C in the first zone and 170 degrees C in the other five zones. The screw speed varied from 60 to 140rpm. Two fiber granulometries were used, X (0,500-0,250mm) and Y (0,841-0,500mm). The homogeneity and the effect of the strain history of these composites could be studied by rheological data of molten composites. Flexural modulus was improved by using an adequate fiber granulometry and extruder screw speed. Results showed that the composite with Y fiber, obtained at 140rpm, was the better one.