In the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam, researchers are transforming the humble durian peel into a powerhouse of innovation, with implications that could reverberate through the construction and energy sectors. Tuan Anh Nguyen, a dedicated scientist from the Faculty of Chemical Technology at Hanoi University of Industry, is leading the charge in optimizing epoxy composites with a green twist.
Nguyen and his team have turned their attention to durian peel fibers (DPF), an abundant agricultural waste, to enhance the mechanical properties and flame retardancy of epoxy composites. Their secret weapon? A simple yet effective eco-friendly chemical treatment using calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂). “We wanted to create a sustainable solution that not only improves the performance of composites but also reduces waste and environmental impact,” Nguyen explains.
The team treated durian peel fibers with Ca(OH)₂ at varying concentrations, creating composite samples that underwent rigorous mechanical and flame resistance tests. The results were striking. The composite treated with 2.0% Ca(OH)₂, dubbed DPF-2, emerged as the champion, boasting superior tensile, flexural, and compressive strengths, as well as impressive impact resistance. But the real showstopper was its flame retardancy. DPF-2 formed a densely packed char layer during combustion, significantly slowing down flame propagation.
The implications for the energy and construction sectors are profound. As the world seeks to build more sustainable and energy-efficient structures, the demand for advanced composite materials that are both strong and flame-retardant is surging. Nguyen’s research offers a glimpse into a future where industrial waste is transformed into high-performance materials, reducing our reliance on finite resources and minimizing environmental impact.
The Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) and UL 94HB (Horizontal Burning Test) results for DPF-2 were particularly promising, demonstrating a significant improvement in flame retardancy. This could pave the way for safer, more durable structures in the automotive, construction, and aerospace industries, all while promoting sustainability.
Nguyen’s work, published in the Mehran University Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (formerly known as Mehran University Research Journal of Engineering and Technology), is just the beginning. As researchers worldwide continue to explore the potential of natural fibers and green chemicals, the future of composite materials looks increasingly bright and sustainable.
The construction industry is on the cusp of a green revolution, and innovations like Nguyen’s are leading the way. By optimizing epoxy composites with Ca(OH)₂-treated durian peel fibers, we’re not just building stronger, safer structures—we’re building a more sustainable future. As the demand for eco-friendly solutions grows, so too will the opportunities for industries to adopt these innovative materials, shaping a greener, more resilient world.