The effect of carbon nanotubes addition on the flexural strength of ramie fiber epoxy composite in the utilization of prosthesis socket

A prosthesis is a medical device that aims to restore the function of the body parts that are normally missing. The most commonly used socket prosthesis material is fiberglass-reinforced composites with several problems in their utilization. The use of natural fibers can be an alternative amplifier on prosthesis composites. The addition of carbon nanotubes (CNT) to composites is known through many studies to improve mechanical properties. This study aims to increase the bending strength as one of the mechanical properties of the ramie fiber-CNT composites for prosthesis socket utilization. The amount of CNT in composites varied by 0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 3%. The form of a chopped strand is a form of fiber. The compatibility of CNT improves by functionalizing CNT using a mild acid oxidation method followed by the surface treatment of a silane coupling agent. Alkaline treatment is used on the fiber to remove impurities that cover the cellulose from the surface, which a silane coupling agent then treats to increase the bonding of the fiber with the matrix. The tests conducted in this study were the FTIR test and bending test. The result showed composite’s bending strength decrease by 48.96%, 35.44%, and 6.31% on the addition of 0.5%, 1%, and 3% of CNT. The results obtained are not yet feasible to be applied to the use of a prosthesis socket.