Physical characterization of coconut fiber (cocos nucifera) and melinjo peel fiber (gnetum gnemon) for potential armor applications

Wahyu Kumala  Sari; Muhamad  Sofian; Yusniati Andini  Putri; Raychanezka Whyatta Pembhayoun Maydjaller  Camqliew

doi:10.55942/pssj.v5i9.1275

Authors

Wahyu Kumala Sari Universitas Cenderawasih
Muhamad Sofian Universitas Cenderawasih
Yusniati Andini Putri Universitas Cenderawasih
Raychanezka Whyatta Pembhayoun Maydjaller Camqliew Universitas Cenderawasih

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55942/pssj.v5i9.1275

Keywords:

coconut coir fiber, gnetum fiber, natural armor, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), tensile strength testing

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the structural characteristics and mechanical properties of young coconut coir fiber (Cocos nucifera L.) and melinjo seed coat fiber (Gnetum gnemon) as potential raw materials for developing bio-based natural armor derived from local resources. A descriptive method with an experimental laboratory approach was employed, including morphological analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and tensile strength testing based on the ASTM D3379-02 standards. The results indicate that young coconut coir fibers possess a porous structure with a high lignin content that functions as an energy-absorbing layer, whereas melinjo fibers exhibit parallel fibril orientation and high cellulose content, contributing to tensile strength and structural stiffness. The combination of these two natural fibers demonstrates the potential of a lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly hybrid composite that mimics the protective mechanism of biological armor systems. These findings provide a scientific foundation for the development of protective materials based on local biomaterials and support sustainable innovation in defense material production.

Author Biographies

Wahyu Kumala Sari, Universitas Cenderawasih

Wahyu Kumala Sari is a lecturer in the Department of Physics at Universitas Cenderawasih (UNCEN). Her academic interests focus on materials physics, natural fiber–based composites, and sustainable biomaterials. She has been actively involved in research related to environmentally friendly materials and their applications in protective systems. She also participates in community-based research and development programs in Papua.

Muhamad Sofian, Universitas Cenderawasih

Muhamad Sofian is a lecturer in the Faculty of Law at Universitas Cenderawasih (UNCEN). His academic interests include environmental law, natural resource governance, and legal frameworks for sustainable development. He has contributed to interdisciplinary studies that integrate legal perspectives with science and technology. His work emphasizes policy development and community-based legal empowerment.

Yusniati Andini Putri, Universitas Cenderawasih

Yusniati Andini Putri is an undergraduate student in the Physics Department at Universitas Cenderawasih and a member of the 2023 cohort. Her academic interests include experimental physics, material characterization, and natural fiber–based materials. She has been involved in laboratory-based research focusing on sustainable material development. She is committed to advancing scientific research in applied physics.

Raychanezka Whyatta Pembhayoun Maydjaller Camqliew, Universitas Cenderawasih

Raychanezka Whyatta Pembhayoun Maydjaller Camqliew is an undergraduate student in the Geophysics Department at Universitas Cenderawasih and a member of the 2024 cohort. His academic interests include applied geophysics, environmental geophysics, and data acquisition techniques. He is actively engaged in academic and field-based learning activities related to earth sciences. His research interests focus on sustainable environmental monitoring and geophysical instrumentation.

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