Effect of TiO<sub>2</sub> filler on mechanical and tribological properties of Owen bamboo fiber reinforced epoxy composite
Ravikantha Prabhu, Sharun Mendonca, Pavana Kumara Bellairu, Rudolf Charles DSouza, Thirumaleshwara N. Bhat
Abstract
Purpose This paper aims to report the effect of titanium oxide (TiO 2 ) particles on the physical, mechanical, tribological and water resistance properties of 5% NaOH-treated bamboo fiber–reinforced composites. Design/methodology/approach In this research, the epoxy/bamboo/TiO 2 hybrid composite filled with 0–8 Wt.% TiO 2 particles has been fabricated using simple hand layup techniques, and testing of the developed composite was done in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard. Findings The results of this study indicate that the addition of TiO 2 particles improved the mechanical properties of the developed epoxy/bamboo composites. Tensile properties were found to be maximum for 6 Wt.%, and impact strength was found to be maximum for 8 Wt.% TiO 2 particles-filled composite. The highest flexural properties were found at a lower TiO 2 fraction of 2 Wt.%. Adding TiO 2 filler helped to reduce the water absorption rate. The studies related to the wear and friction behavior of the composite under dry and abrasive wear conditions reveal that TiO 2 filler was beneficial in improving the wear performance of the composite. Originality/value This research paper attempts to include both TiO 2 filler and bamboo fibers to develop a novel composite material. TiO 2 micro and nanoparticles are promising filler materials; it helps to enhance the mechanical and tribological properties of the epoxy composites and in literature, there is not much work reported, where TiO 2 is used as a filler material with bamboo fiber–reinforced epoxy composites.