Exploring the antibacterial, mechanical and thermal properties of calabash fiber reinforced epoxy composite with natural fillers
Karthik Kannan, Karthik Kannan, Madhan kumar G, Sudhakara Reddy M, Gaurav Tuteja, Priyadarshi Das, Ruby Mishra, Kamakshi Priya K, Kamakshi Priya K
Abstract
• Mechanical, thermal, and antibacterial properties of Crescentia cujete fiber composites is evaluated. • Mechanical strength improved by 25 % in tensile, 29 % in flexural, and 67 % in impact strength. • Thermal performance enhanced with a 23 % reduction in conductivity and 25 % higher heat deflection. • Antibacterial effect showed a 56 % larger inhibition zone at higher fiber concentrations. • Sustainability achieved through natural fibers as eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic materials. • Industrial potential identified in automotive, aerospace, and construction applications. This study investigates the unique potential of Calabash (Crescentia cujete) fiber (CCF) reinforced with natural fillers in an epoxy matrix, positioning it as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials. Unlike existing research, this work combines a detailed evaluation of mechanical, thermal, and antibacterial properties with a focus on optimizing performance through higher fiber content. The composite demonstrated superior mechanical properties, achieving tensile and flexural strengths of 47.15 MPa and 47.92 MPa, respectively, and an impact strength of 15 Joules. Scanning Electron Microscopy analysis confirmed robust fiber-matrix adhesion, enabling efficient stress transfer and durability. Thermal analysis highlighted a significant reduction in thermal conductivity from 2.14 W/mK to 1.65 W/mK and an increase in heat deflection temperature to 91 °C, showcasing excellent insulation and high-temperature resilience. X-ray Diffraction identified a crystallinity of 32.9 %, while Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy revealed the presence of key biochemical constituents like cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, critical for reinforcing the composite. Notably, antibacterial testing demonstrated zones of inhibition up to 14 mm, underscoring the material's potential for biomedical and sanitary applications. This study uniquely integrates these findings, highlighting CCF-based composites as a versatile, high-performance alternative for diverse industrial applications, with significant environmental and functional advantages over synthetic materials.