Swelling behaviour and morphological analysis of Arenga pinnata–silicone biocomposite

Silicone rubber possesses low mechanical strength and the addition of AP fibres into silicone rubber enhances its mechanical as well as the chemical properties. This study proves that the presence of AP fibres restrict the chemical intake by the silicone rubber which indicating the material is suitable to be employed for sealing applications. [Display omitted] •New biocomposite material introduced; Arenga pinnata–silicone biocomposite.•Increment of Arenga pinnata fibre content reduces the swelling rate.•Morphological analysis revealed a homogenous swelling occurred in the specimens.•Arenga pinnata–silicone biocomposite is a suitable candidate for sealing purposes. Swelling behaviour and morphological characteristics of Arenga pinnata–silicone biocomposite (APSil) after swelling test were investigated and compared to pure silicone rubber (0 wt%). Results indicate that the highest filler addition (16 wt%) possess the lowest swelling rate followed by 8 wt% and 0 wt% specimens. The nature of fibre/matrix interface of the swelled samples was examined through scanning electron microscope. Addition of Arenga pinnata (AP) filler in silicone rubber shows less crack propagation in comparison to without filler. Thus, it can be concluded that the addition of AP filler improves the swelling properties of silicone rubber which makes it a good candidate for sealing application.