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Journal of Polymer & Composites Original Research

Tailoring Toughness of Pineapple Leaf Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites Using Halloysite Nanotubes

  1. Krishna Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vidyavardhaka Polytechnic, Mysuru
  2. Hema H Department of Civil Engineering, The National Institute of Engineering, Mysuru
  3. Amoghavarsha Department of Civil Engineering, P E S College of Engineering, Mandya
  4. Bharath P B Department of Mechanical Engineering, S J M Institute of Technology, Chitradurga
  5. Suresha B Department of Mechanical Engineering, JSS Science and Technology University, Mysuru

Abstract

This comprehensive study investigates the effects of halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) on the impact strength and fracture toughness of pineapple leaf fabric-reinforced epoxy (PALF/Ep) composites with an emphasis on sustainable material development. ASTM D256 and ASTM D5045 standards were followed in the fabrication of the composites. HNT weight percentages were systematically changed from 0 to 3wt% through using solution mixing and manual lay-up techniques, and vacuum bagging was used to obtain the best fiber-matrix impregnation. Results from these experimental studies demonstrate significant improvements in mechanical performance. According to single-edge notched bend tests, fracture toughness increased from 2.91 ± 0.3 MPa·m1/2 in the unfilled PALF/Ep to a maximum of 4.92 ± 0.2 MPa·m1/2 at 2wt% HNT loading. Izod impact testing revealed that impact strength reached a maximum of 433.9 J/m at this loading, an impressive 95.2% improvement above the unfilled PALF/Ep of 222.3 J/m. Due to nanotube agglomeration, which promoted stress concentrations and poor dispersion, performance somewhat decreased at 3wt% HNT loading. However, HNTs work well as nanofillers, increasing the PALF/Ep composite's impact and fracture toughness. These results advance bio-based engineering solutions by supporting HNT-modified PALF/Ep for high-performance green composites in structural areas including wind turbine blades and automotive panels.

Keywords

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