Synthesis of EPDM coconut leaves activated carbon composite

Abstract

This paper explores the use of activated carbon derived from coconut leaves as filler in Ethylene-PropyleneDiene Monomer (EPDM) composites for automotive applications. The carbon is produced and activated by using dehydrating agent phosphoric acid (H3 PO4 ). It was filtered for of CL-355, CL-710, CL-500 and CL-53 mesh particle size. The ratio of phosphoric acid to biomass is maintained as 3:1 for 300 g of batch size. CL355 exhibited superior properties, including higher yield, methylene blue number, iodine number, and surface area, making it the optimal choice for further study. Scanning Electron Microscopy analysis revealed the morphology of the activated carbon. The EPDM composites were compounded using a two-roll mill at 160°C. EPDM is purposefully selected because it is an oil-resistant used where high oil resistance is required, as in automotive seals, gaskets, or other items subjected to contact with hot oils. The composites prepared are of 20, 40, 60 parts per hundred (Phr) basis. As compared to commercially available carbon filler, the activated carbon derived from Coconut leaves biomass waste responded better to the petrol swelling test. Activated carbon resulting from Coconut leaves was looked to be the best for percent swelling and percent deviation in rigidity. On the other hand, the main matrix property is stiffness and softness found increased, this was recognized by ferret diameter calculation. The activated carbon from coconut leaves, particularly the CL-355 particle size, shows potential as effective filler in EPDM composites for automotive applications, offering improved oil resistance and desirable mechanical properties.