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Journal of Polymer & Composites Review Article Special issue

Experimental Study on Mechanical and Tribological Characterization of Arecanut Shell Fibre Reinforced Composites with MWCNT Nanofillers

  1. Srikanth H V Department of Aeronautical Engineering, Nitte (Deemed to be University), Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology (NMIT), Bengaluru
  2. Santhosh N Department of Mechanical Engineering, Dayananda Sagar Academy of Technology and Management, Bengaluru
  3. Praveena B A Department of Mechanical Engineering, Nitte (Deemed to be University), Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology (NMIT), Bengaluru
  4. Rajadurai M Department of Aeronautical Engineering, Nitte (Deemed to be University), Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology (NMIT), Bengaluru
  5. Ramvishal G Department of Aeronautical Engineering, Nitte (Deemed to be University), Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology (NMIT), Bangaluru

Abstract

Natural fiber-reinforced composites (NFRCs) are emerging as sustainable alternatives to conventional synthetic composites due to their eco-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and favorable mechanical properties. This study evaluates the mechanical and tribological performance of Areca Nutshell Fiber (ANSF)-reinforced epoxy composites with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as nanofillers. The composites were fabricated using the vacuum bag molding technique. Tensile tests assessed strength, modulus, and elongation, while flexural tests evaluated bending resistance. Pin-on-disc tests examined wear behavior under varying conditions. Results indicate that 30 wt. % ANSF enhances tensile strength to 32.5 MPa and flexural strength to 55.7 MPa. The addition of 1.5 wt. % MWCNTs further improves Young’s modulus (2.1 GPa) and flexural modulus (3.4 GPa). Tribological tests show a 30% reduction in wear rate and a 25% decrease in coefficient of friction under oil-based lubrication. These findings suggest that ANSF-MWCNT epoxy composites are suitable for automotive, aerospace, and biomedical applications requiring high durability and wear resistance.

Keywords

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