Hybrid polymer composites of <i>Terminalia chebula</i> filler reinforced thermal and mechanical characterization of bagasse/tamarind seed
R. Udhayasankar, B. Karthikeyan, Karmani Murugan, A. Balaji
Abstract
The development of manufacturing industries is crucial for national progress, with a growing emphasis on green and sustainable practices. This study investigates the development and performance of hybrid polymer composites based on poly lactic acid (PLA) reinforced with lignocellulosic fillers: bagasse fiber (BF), tamarind seed fiber (TSF), Terminalia chebula fiber (TCF), and a hybrid filler of bagasse, tamarind seed, and Terminalia chebula (BTSTCF). Five types of composites were fabricated with varying filler compositions: PLA, PLA/BF, PLA/TSF, PLA/TCF, and PLA/BTSTCF, consisting of 30% BF, TSF, or TCF with 70% PLA, and an additional 10% of each filler in the BTSTCF composite. The results demonstrated that the PLA/BTSTCF hybrid composite outperformed others regarding mechanical strength, thermal stability, and interfacial adhesion. Specifically, it exhibited superior flexural strength, impact strength, and tensile strength. The findings indicate that incorporating a combination of bagasse, tamarind seed, and Terminalia chebula fillers into PLA significantly enhances its properties and performance. This study contributes to advancing sustainable and green manufacturing practices and holds promise for economic growth through the development of high-performance, eco-friendly materials.