Exploring the Potential of Tamarindus indica and Caryota mitis Leaf Stalk Fibers for Sustainable Biodegradable Composites

Abstract

As a substitute for synthetic materials, it is difficult for researchers studying natural fiber materials to develop biodegradable composite materials. These natural fiber-infused polymer composites are environmentally friendly and exhibit excellent mechanical properties. The main objectives of this work were to create and analyze epoxy polymer composites reinforced with Tamarindus indica and Caryota mitis leaf stalk fiber. Five distinct compositions were used in the hand lay-up procedure to create composite specimens. An evaluation was conducted on the mechanical qualities, including hardness, tensile strength, and impact resistance. To evaluate the physical and chemical properties of the composites, their metallurgical features were investigated using wear, microstructure, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Specimen C, composed of 20% C. mitis, 20% T. indica powder, and 60% epoxy, showed the best tensile strength (69.12 MPa) and the highest hardness (76.37 VHN) of all the compositions examined. The composite exhibited favorable bonding and temperature adaptability, as demonstrated by the microstructure and TGA studies. All things considered, research indicates that these hybrid composites have better particular qualities, which makes them suitable materials for use in automotive and aerospace applications.