Comparative Analysis of Performance Impact: Car Bumper Made from Empty Palm Fruit Bunch (EPFB) and Polypropylene (PP)

Abstract

This study presents a comparative analysis of the performance impact 
of car bumpers made from empty palm fruit bunch (EPFB) composites 
versus those from conventional materials like polypropylene (PP). The 
use of EPFB fibers blended low-density polyethylene (LDPE) in polymer 
composites for production is low-cost and environmentally polluted, it 
is also lightweight when applied in car bumper applications. The 
bumper is a crucial safety component of the car that can absorb energy 
in a collision to ensure the passengers are safe. The research objectives 
were to evaluate the deformation, strain, and stress performance of 
EPFB composites and compare these properties to PP, identifying the 
most suitable EPFB composition as an alternative material for bumper 
application. ANSYS software is used in this research to examine the 
performance impact on car bumpers, which is by using features of static 
structural simulation. The results showed that the EPFB-LDPE 0.8% 
composites strike a good balance between flexibility and stiffness, 
performing a good alternative material as PP in stress while absorbing 
more energy. EPFB-LDPE composites may not be totally suited for 
direct usage as a bumper material in their current state due to 
significant deformation and strain, indicating probable shape retention 
and structural failure under heavy impact. While its ability to absorb 
stress is promising, the lack of stiffness complicates preserving 
structural integrity during crashes. Additionally, using EPFB composites 
supports sustainability by reusing agricultural waste and reducing 
reliance on non-renewable resources. In conclusion, the EPFB-LDPE 
0.8% composite is a promising eco-friendly alternative to PP for car 
bumpers, combining reliable performance with environmental benefits 
and paving the way for greener innovations in the automotive industry.