Work

Effect of hot-pressing temperature on the structure and physico-mechanical properties of kapok fiber nonwoven mats

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: , 50.76 MPa, and 6622.7 MPa, respectively, due to enhanced fiber consolidation. Among the tested conditions, 170 °C provided the highest mechanical performance and most effective fiber consolidation. Surface morphology was analyzed using a tabletop microscope and the results revealed a progressively more compact and smoother fiber structure at higher hot-pressing temperatures. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy indicated a change in the intensity of hydroxyl (-OH) absorption bands with increasing temperature, suggesting partial thermal modification of the fiber surface. Moreover, tensile strength and tensile modulus increased with increasing hot-pressing temperature. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) confirmed that hot-pressing temperature had a statistically significant effect on the physical and mechanical properties of the nonwoven mats. This work provides valuable insights into the sustainable utilization of KF and offers practical guidance for the industrial production of high-performance, eco-friendly nonwoven materials.

Source: RSC Advances

DOI: 10.1039/d6ra07101e

Authors: M. A. M. Mohd Idrus, Md. Saiful Islam, Mohd Yuzri Mohd Yusop, Zulzamri Salleh

Institutions: University of Kuala Lumpur, Bangladesh Army University of Engineering & Technology

Language: English

Topic: Natural Fiber Reinforced Composites

Subfield: Polymers and Plastics

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,042

Funders: University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore, University of Kuala Lumpur, Universiti Kuala Lumpur