Optimization and Prediction of Wear Characteristics of Khas Khas Grass/Mesquite Bark Powder/Banana Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Green Hybrid Composites Using Taguchi Technique

Abstract

The use of natural fiber-reinforced composites is growing quickly due to its favorable environmental effects during manufacture and decomposition, high specific strength, abundance, and excellent mechanical and physical qualities. The purpose of this research is to ascertain the wear performance and dynamic mechanical behavior of epoxy matrix composites supplemented with banana fiber (Bf), khas khas grass fiber (Kkgf), and mesquite bark powder/filler (Mbp). In this investigation, hand lay-up is used to create epoxy-based composites with varying weight proportions of Bf/Kkgf/Mbp. The composite samples are then put through wear tests under various operating situations utilizing a pin-on-disc test rig in accordance with ASTM G 99-05 standards. The L₂₅ orthogonal array of Taguchi technique is used to analyze the significance and contributions of factors on wear behavior in addition for finding the optimal composite sample. A statistical plot is utilized to control the relationship among parameters. Confirmation studies were carried out based on the best combination, and the findings revealed a minimal difference of 3.76 × 10⁻⁸ mm³/N mm. DMA is the most sensitive viscoelastic behavior of materials, particularly for detecting the glass transition region (Tg). It is also utilized to evaluate the modulus and damping characteristics of materials while they are deformed under dynamic stress.