Sustainable Hybrid Kenaf/EFB Fibre Reinforced PLA Composites

The increasing concern over waste management and the demand for sustainable materials have driven interest in biocomposites as alternatives that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, the use of natural fibers often results in poor mechanical properties and high moisture absorption due to their hydrophilic nature. Hybridization, which combines multiple reinforcement fibers, offers a strategy to overcome these limitations. In this study, hybrid biocomposites were fabricated using poly(lactic acid) (PLA) reinforced with kenaf and empty fruit bunch (EFB) fibers, with additional fillers and additives, through internal mixing and compression molding. The aim of this research is to develop and assessing the mechanical and morphological properties of sustainable hybrid kenaf/empty fruit bunch fibre reinforced PLA composites. The incorporation of EFB into Kenaf/PLA composites significantly enhanced mechanical properties, with tensile strength improved by approximately 47% and modulus increased by about 32% compared to the composite without EFB. Moreover, hybrid Kenaf/EFB/PLA composites exhibited the highest degradation rate of around 0.33% weight loss for 10 days soil burial test, as well as the highest density test (approximately 0.9% increment compared to PLA composite) attributed to the high cellulose content of EFB. FTIR analysis further confirmed the reduction of hydroxyl and ester groups in treated kenaf and EFB fibers, indicating effective removal of non-cellulosic components and improved fiber–matrix interactions in the composites. SEM morphological analysis confirmed enhanced fiber–matrix adhesion, which contributed to increased stiffness and strength. Overall, the findings demonstrate that hybridization of kenaf and EFB fibers in PLA not only improves material performance but also supports biodegradability, offering a sustainable solution towards a circular economy.