Development of waste carpet (jute) and Multi-wall carbon nanotube incorporated epoxy composites for lightweight applications

Abstract

This work highlights the recycling of waste carpet (Jute) to develop epoxy composites using a modified vacuum-assisted environment. Incorporating Multi-wall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) into the epoxy matrix in different weight percentages improves the physio-mechanical properties. The MWCNT was supplemented at 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1 wt% to investigate the mechanical aspects of composite samples. The nanofiller (MWCNT) dispersion in the epoxy matrix was simulated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDX). The results were compared to the neat (pristine) sample to study the influence of nano-supplement. The Tensile, Flexural, and Impact tests were the selected experiments to assess the material characteristics. The findings show the feasibility of the developed samples for lightweight structural applications such as toy items, wall tiles, roof tiles, sound insulation, and roadside barriers. It could be endorsed as a feasible way to handle the waste issues generated by the carpet and textile sources.