Effect of Nanofillers on Mechanical and Water Absorption Properties of Alkaline Treated Jute Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Bio Nanocomposites
Adnan Amjad, A. Anjang, Mohamad Jafre Zainol Abidin
Abstract
Natural fiber composites (NFCs) are gaining popularity in various technical sectors due to their environmental friendliness and low cost. In this study, alumina and magnesia were employed as nanofillers in various compositions of alkaline-treated and untreated jute fiber reinforced epoxy bio nanocomposites (BNCs). The synergetic effect of surface treatment and nanofillers was investigated in terms of mechanical properties (compression and interlaminar shear), water absorption behavior, and morphology of composites. Significant improvements in compressive and interlaminar shear strengths were reported, as well as a substantial decrease in the proportion of water absorbed. The optimal nanofiller concentration was observed at 3% in both alkaline-treated and untreated jute fiber-reinforced epoxy BNCs. The results demonstrate that nanofillers combined with surface treatment can significantly improve the strength and water absorption properties of jute fiber reinforced epoxy BNCs.