Physico‐mechanical, and thermal properties of sisal/hemp/Kevlar fibers, fly ash and Titanium Carbide nanoparticles reinforced bioepoxy composites

Abstract

AbstractIn the present investigation, the chemically treated and untreated sisal/hemp fibers, fly ash or titanium carbide (TiC) nanofillers, and Kevlar fabrics reinforced bio epoxy (Sr 56) polymer matrix were manufactured using the wet layup method. Experimentation was performed to study the physical, mechanical and thermal properties. This investigation also includes determining the influence of accelerated weathering on the specimen surface for 5 months. The tensile fracture of the sample before and after the accelerated weathering from scanning electron microscope (SEM) pictures exhibited that the extensive failure principles in the laminates in terms of matrix cracking, fiber breakage, delamination, and fiber pull out. The thermal analysis examined the onset, endset temperature, transition loss, and carbon residue which were also reduced after the accelerated weathering. It exhibits that adding fly ash or TiC nanoparticles as an altered inhibitor against the weathering in the bio epoxy hybrid composite scheme can reduce the undesirable impacts from moisture and Ultra‐violet light exposure.Highlights Sisal/hemp fibers were chemically treated to reduce hydrophilicity. Contact angle of KSCHCTBE56 improved to 84.04°. SEM confirmed uniform dispersion of fillers and enhance mechanical strength. Mechanical and thermal characteristics reduced after accelerated weathering.