Effects of bonding agents on the mechanical properties of the composites made of natural rubber and oil palm empty fruit bunch

The effects of various bonding agents on natural rubber-oil palm wood flour (OPWF) composites were studied. Results indicate that the maximum torque i ncreases with increasing OPWF loading and the incorporation of various bond ing agents. Compared to the composite without a bonding agent, the incorpor ation of bonding agents improves the tensile modulus, tear strength, tensil e strength, and hardness of the composites. Scanning electron microscopy st udies and rubber-fiber interaction measurements indicate that the OPWF-rubb er adhesion can be enhanced by the use of bonding agents.