In a significant stride towards sustainable materials, researchers have developed innovative green composites that could revolutionize industries ranging from automotive to renewable energy. The study, led by H. Amitkumar, a Research Scholar at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Jayachamarajendra College of Engineering, JSS STU in Mysuru, Karnataka, India, explores the potential of natural fibers combined with eco-friendly fillers to create high-performance composites.
The research, published in the journal ‘Tribology in Industry’ (which translates to ‘Friction and Wear in Industry’), focuses on the mechanical properties of composites made from sisal, jute, and bamboo fibers reinforced with epoxy resin. The team experimented with two types of fillers: Coconut Shell Powder (CSP) and Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS). The composites were fabricated using hand layup and bag molding techniques with varying fiber volume fractions.
The results are promising. “GGBS-filled composites exhibited superior tensile strength, flexural strength, and impact strength,” Amitkumar noted. For instance, the average tensile strength enhancements were 18.3% for sisal, 19.9% for jute, 15.3% for bamboo, and 10.7% for hybrid fibers. These improvements suggest that GGBS-filled composites could offer a more robust and durable alternative to traditional materials.
Moreover, the study found that GGBS-filled composites displayed higher Shore D hardness, with bamboo-GGBS exhibiting a 14.45% higher hardness than bamboo-CSP. This enhanced hardness could be particularly beneficial in applications requiring high wear resistance, such as in the automotive and construction industries.
One of the most compelling aspects of this research is the reduction in water and oil absorption percentages. For example, sisal composites saw a 24.5% reduction in water absorption and a 32.1% reduction in oil absorption. These properties are crucial for applications in harsh environments, such as offshore wind turbines or marine structures, where exposure to water and oil is inevitable.
The study also employed EDAX and SEM analyses to confirm the composition and microstructure of the developed composites. These analyses revealed strong interfacial bonding, uniform filler distribution, and distinct energy levels of constituents, further validating the potential of these materials.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As industries increasingly seek sustainable and high-performance materials, these green composites could play a pivotal role. “These NFRCs offer a durable and sustainable solution for various industries, including automotive, aerospace, medical devices, renewable energy, and construction,” Amitkumar explained.
The development of these green composites could also drive innovation in the renewable energy sector. For instance, the enhanced mechanical properties and reduced water and oil absorption could make these materials ideal for wind turbine blades, which require high strength and durability in challenging environments.
In conclusion, this research represents a significant step forward in the development of sustainable materials. By combining natural fibers with eco-friendly fillers, the team has created composites that offer superior mechanical properties and reduced environmental impact. As industries continue to seek greener solutions, these green composites could become a cornerstone of future developments.