Mechanical characteristic of coconut coir composite to be used for fender

Abstract

Nowadays, new technologies develop fender systems to ensure safety ships and pier during berthing. The basic characteristics of the fender should depend from elasticity of the materials. The fenders will more efficient if a huge energy can absorb. In this study, the structural characteristics and mechanical properties of coir composites was evaluated. The results obtained for flexural strength will allow comparisons of the composites with other conventional materials in terms of the technical performance. Coir is the natural material from the husk of coconut and an alternative material other than natural rubber to be use in fender because of its absorption of collision characteristics. The coconut coir is assessed as an environmental friendly material owing to its biodegradability and renewable characteristics. The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of using coir in fender other than natural rubber. The few specimens was tested by mechanical test such as tensile test, bending test and impact test. Tensile test was carried out to determine the strength of material, while bending test is to obtain the maximum stress on the tension side of flexural and Impact test; it's to obtain the impact energy that can be absorbed. The results indicate that composite coir is 119.8 MPa for tensile stress, 38.73866 N for maximum flexure and 1.184 J for energy absorption.