Prediction of Long – Term Creep Properties of Kenaf Fiber Unsaturated Polyester Composites

Abstract

This research focuses on predicting long-term behavior of unsaturated polyester resin (UP) and kenaf unsaturated polyester composite. The objectives of these tests are to establish a relationship between stress, strain and time at constant loading and temperature. The results obtained from these tests are used in predicting the life and strength of the polymer material. Based on the 1,000 hours experimental data, curve fitting and Findley Power Law models are employed to predict long-term behavior of the material. The results showed that curve fitting model accurately predicted the non-linear time dependent creep deformation of these materials with acceptable accuracy.