Effect of Al₂O₃ Nanofiller on the Mechanical Performance of Hemp-kenaf Reinforced Epoxy Hybrid Composites
B. Nanthini, S. Seenivasan, T. Prabhu, Kelin S. Johnson, V. Sathya, M. Jegadeeswaran
Abstract
Biocompatibility, affordability, and broad availability are three reasons why natural-based composites are gaining popularity among both producers and consumers. The possibility of forming a composite with Alumina (Al2O3) a cost-effective nano filler material, natural fibers, and an epoxy matrix is explored in this study. In particular, it investigates the effects of three different Al2O3 concentrations on the mechanical properties of a hybrid composite made of hemp and kenaf, including hardness, impact resistance, flexural strength, and inter-laminar shear strength (ILSS). Hand layup followed by hot pressing was used to produce the composites. The composite containing 6 wt% Al2O3 (C3) outperformed the other configurations by a margin of 2% to 36 % in terms of tensile, flexural, ILSS, and impact strengths. Adding 6 wt% Al2O3 increased the mechanical properties of the composite by increasing fiber-matrix adhesion, according to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study of the cracked surfaces.