Analysis of Thermal Conductivity Properties of Recycled High Density Polyethylene Composite Materials Strengthened by Bamboo Fiber with Variations in Fiber Shapes

Abstract

The problem of plastics waste in Indonesia is still a matter that needs to be considered, as evidenced by the high and continuous increase in the amount of plastics waste. One of solutions that can be applied is to reduce the amount of plastics waste in Indonesia by utilizing plastics waste into composite materials. Recycled high density polyethylene used as a matrix combined with Gigantochloa apus bamboo fiber as reinforcement. Composites were made with the fiber weight fraction of 20% with fiber shape variations that is particulate, inner bamboo woven, and mixed inner-outer woven. The hot press method was used in composite making. The research design was analytical with a cross-sectional approach. The material in this study were 20 mesh rHDPE as a matrix and Gigantochloa apus bamboo with a particle size of 20 mesh and woven fiber treated with soaking 5% NaOH for 2 h and dried using oven for 12 h at 60 °C. This composite can be applied as the roof of the house to decrease heat from the outside, it is necessary to test the thermal conductivity of composite materials. Conductivity test using ASTM E1225 standard. The particle fiber shape, inner woven, and mixed woven have 0.174, 0.185, and 0.202 W/m °K thermal conductivity value.