ANALISIS KUAT TARIK DAN SRUKTUR MAKRO LIMBAH PLASTIK KOMPOSIT LDPE DAN PVC DENGAN SERAT BUAH KELAPA SAWIT

The problem of LDPE and PVC plastic waste, which is difficult to decompose, has caused serious environmental impacts. This study explores the use of these wastes as non-structural composites reinforced with oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) fiber, which has good mechanical properties and is environmentally friendly. The theoretical basis refers to studies on thermoplastic polymers, the characteristics of LDPE, PVC, and oil palm fiber, as well as research onnatural fiber composites.The method involved
preparing specimens according to ASTM D638 Type IV standards with variations in composition, followed by a hot-press process at 180°C and 190°C. Tensile tests were conducted using a TRIPOD AEV machine to measure maximum load, tensile strength, longation, and elastic modulus. Macroscopic analysis was performed with a high-resolution camera to evaluate fiber distribution and voids.The results showed that the optimal composition was 60% LDPE, 20% PVC, and 20% oil palm fiber at 180°C, achieving an average tensile strength of 13.16 MPa with a coefficient of variance of 18.76%. This meets the composite plate requirements in
SNI 03-0691-1996, showing a dense, homogeneous structure with minimal voids. The addition of oil palm fiber in the right proportion improved tensile strength and macrostructure quality. This research confirms that oil palm fiber is an effective natural reinforcement for transforming plastic waste into strong and eco-friendly composites.