Pengaruh Variasi Fraksi Volume Serat Dan Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) Terhadap Kekuatan Tarik Pada Komposit Polyester Berpenguat Serat Sisal

Abstract

The development of material technology has driven innovations in natural fiber –based composites, including
the use of sisal fiber (Agave sisalana) and Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) as alternative materials with
superior mechanical properties. This study aims to determine the effect of varying sisal fiber volume fractions
on the tensile strength of polyester composites with the addition of 5% MCC. Sisal fiber (Agave sisalana) serves
as an eco-friendly natural reinforcement with favorable mechanical proper ties, while MCC is used as a filler
to improve mechanical performance by enhancing the bond between the fiber and the polymer matrix, as well
as reducing voids within the composite. Specimens were fabricated using the hand lay-up method with Yukalac
157 BQTN-EX polyester resin, 10 mm sisal fibers treated with 5% NaOH, and MCC amounting to 5% of the
total volume. The sisal fiber volume fractions used were 25%, 30%, and 35%. Tensile tes ting was conducted in
accordance with ASTM D3039 standards.