Evaluation of Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Husk Fibre as a Potential Reinforcing Material for Bioplastic Production

In this study the potential use of coconut husk (Cocos nucifera) husk fibre for the reinforcement of bio-plastic produced with cassava (Manihot utilissima) starch was investigated. Five compositions of the bioplastics were formulated containing 0% (control), 5%. 10%, 15% and 20% of coconut husk fibre. The tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, impact energy, water absorption, and biodegradability of the fibre-reinforced bioplastic samples were then determined in accordance with standard methods. Results obtained showed that the tensile strength values ranged from 0.36 to 0.68MPa; while the modulus of elasticity ranged from 2.7 x10(6) to 4.9 x10(6) N/m(2). The impact energy range was 1.73-3.7 J. Analysis of variance showed that coconut husk fibre content had a significant effect on the tensile strength. The impact energy increased with an increase in fibre content up to 15%. Also, water absorption (27.3-42.9%) increased with an increase in fibre content. The bioplastics were biodegraded within one month of grave yard test. The optimum fibre reinforcement level was found to be 10%. This may, however, be increased to 15% for impact resistance improvement.