Investigation of mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties of abelmoschus esculentus reinforced sal tree gum epoxy composite

Abstract

Composite materials especially epoxy composites have drawn a lot of newlineinterest because of their numerous uses and advantageous qualities that may be newlineapplied to a variety of sectors. In recent times, there has been a growing newlinepreference towards investigating sustainable alternatives for enhancing the newlinestrength of these composite materials. The interest around this topic has prompted newlineresearch investigations on the integration of bio-fillers and natural fibres. The newlinemain aim of this study is to examine the mechanical and viscoelastic properties newlineof epoxy composites that have been enhanced using bio-fillers derived from Sal newlinetree gum and fibres sourced from Abelmoschus Esculentus (okra). The quest for newlineecologically sustainable alternatives that may reduce dependence on conventional newlinepetroleum-derived materials while maintaining or surpassing the performance of newlineconventional materials has led to the need for bio reinforcements. newlineIn this work, the selection of Abelmoschus Esculentus fibres and Sal newlinetree gum bio-fillers was based on their accessibility, renewable nature, and newlinepotential to improve the mechanical properties of epoxy composites. newlineExperimental investigations were conducted to assess the mechanical and newlineviscoelastic characteristics of the composites, with the aim of evaluating the newlineinfluence of different filler quantities, fibre lengths, and chemical treatments on newlinethe composites. Significant enhancements in the tensile strength, modulus, newlineflexural strength, and energy absorption characteristics of the material were seen newlinewith the use of bio-fillers derived from Sal tree gum. The experiments were newlineconducted in three phases. In the first phase bio filler derived from Sal tree gum newlineat different volume fractions was incorporated into the epoxy matrix and optimal newlinefiller volume percentage was determined yielding better mechanical properties. newline