ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates the mechanical properties of Silica aerogel (AG) upon the incorporation of polypropylene (PP) and kenaf core fiber composites. PP was widely used in automotive components. Kenaf is used as an alternative to wood in pulp and paper industries to reduce deforestation, as non-woven mats in the automotive industries, and in textiles and fibreboard. The conversion of the agricultural crops into automotive interior materials will benefit the establishment of a sustainable and environmentally friendly resource base for the industry. The chapter shows that the addition of AG was able to improve all the effects of kenaf core fibers: improve tensile strength and increase tensile modulus. The mechanical improvement of a fiber-reinforced plastic composite mostly depends on three main factors: the modulus and strength of the fiber, the chemical stability and strength of the resin, and the effectiveness of the bond between resin and fiber.
