Investigation of Mechanical Properties in Ligno-Cellulosic Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites with SiC and Al2O3 Fillers

This study investigates the influence of fiber loading and filler content on the tensile properties of epoxy composites reinforced with a lignocellulose fiber i.e. banana fiber. Natural fiber composites have risen to popularity in engineering applications due to their ability to optimize strength, weight, and cost as the world moves toward eco-friendly materials. Banana fiber, which is derived from the pseudostems of ripe bananas, is a readily available reinforcing option. Both unfilled and filled composites containing silicon carbide (SiC) and aluminum oxide (Al2O3) are the subject of this study.  Results show that unfilled composites are sensitive to fiber loading in terms of tensile strength, flexural strength, and hardness. An optimum fiber loading of 15% by weight demonstrates the highest tensile and flexural strengths. Additionally, there is a pattern whereby increasing the filler content from 0 to 20 wt. percent increases the tensile and flexural strengths, followed by a decrease at 30 wt. percent. Surprisingly, the increased flexural and tensile strengths are mostly attributable to the 20 wt.% Al2O3 concentration. This study highlights the potential for improving composite performance by tuning the fiber-to-filler ratio, a step forward in the development of environmentally friendly materials. This research adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the usage of sustainable engineering materials in today's environmentally conscious world.