The Development of Floor Tiles from Coir Fiber and Natural Rubber

Research Title : The Development of Floor Tiles from Coir Fiber and Natural Rubber

Researcher : Assist.Prof.Ekarut Ruayruay

Office :

Research Grants : Research and Innovation for Transfer technology to Rural Community Project

Year : 2008

Abstract

                This research was studied about the possibility of natural rubber mixing with the coir, it was carried out by preparing the rubber compound based on natural rubber grade STR20 and loading with the coir in proportion 100:0, 100:5, 100:10, 100:15, 100:20, 100:25, 100:30, 100:40, 100:50, 100:60 and 100:70 phr.

The compositions were mixed with the two–roll mill then compression molding machine; after that they were tesed the mechanical properties by density, tensile strength, tear strength, abrasion, abrasion resistance, water absorption and hardness.

The results revealed that the cured rubber provided tended to decline in tensile and tear properties. However, it also tended to improved in density and hardness properties, no water permeability.

Keywords : Coconut Fiber, Coconut coir powder, natural rubber