Synthesis and Characterization of Polyester or Coconut Fiber Composites

¹ Departement of Mechanical Engineering, Universitas Negeri Jakarta, Jakarta, 13220, Indonesia
² Research Center for Fuel Technology, BRIN, Banten, 15310, Indonesia
³ Departement of Electrical Engineering, Pamulang University, Banten, 15310, Indonesia
⁴ Faculty of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering Technology, Universiti Pahang Al Sultan Abdullah, Pekan, 26600, Malaysia

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Published online: 2 July 2026

Abstract

The need for eco-friendly materials is driving research on natural fiber-based composites as alternatives to conventional materials. An automated compaction device rated at 3000 Psi was designed and evaluated in this research to address fabrication pressure deviations, a major issue in human lay-up procedures. Three samples of polyester/coconut fiber composites were prepared using the ratio of fiber to resin of 40:60 (Sample A), 50:50 (Sample B), and 60:40 (Sample C) in volume. The samples were characterized using FTIR, SEM, and STA. FTIR shows that no significant peak shifts are observed between the sample. Based on SEM characterization, Fiber distribution across the matrix is uneven in places. Thermogravimetric analysis, all samples had a primary breakdown window between 250 and 400°C. Residual masses at 800°C ranged from around 26% to 33%. Sample B shows the highest weight degradation caused by its greater cellulose content. When combined, the results show that the specially developed compaction processes successfully provide coconut fiber-polyester composites.