Mechanical and water absorption characterization of rice husk and coconut coir reinforced biochar composites

Abstract

In this study, four distinct composite samples (Samples A, B, C, and D) were fabricated using varying compositions of biochar, rice bran, coconut coir, and epoxy matrix. Sample A, serving as the baseline with 90% epoxy and 10% biochar, exhibited moderate mechanical properties. Sample B, with 80% epoxy and 20% biochar, demonstrated significantly higher tensile and flexural modulus values, indicative of improved stiffness. Sample C, incorporating 10% rice bran alongside 80% epoxy and 10% biochar, displayed reduced mechanical properties compared to Sample B, potentially due to the lower strength of rice bran particles. Sample D, comprising 80% epoxy, 10% biochar, and 5% coconut coir, demonstrated weaker tensile properties but higher flexural modulus, suggesting enhanced resistance to bending forces. Mechanical testing, water absorption analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and SEM imaging provided comprehensive insights into the mechanical and chemical characteristics of the composites, underscoring their potential for diverse applications in sustainable materials development.