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Wettability-Driven void suppression and enhanced mechanical performance in Si₃N₄-Reinforced bamboo Fiber epoxy
M Saravana Kumar1,2, Che-Hua Yang3, Khaja Moiduddin4
1Graduate Institute of Manufacturing Technology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei, 10608, Taiwan. saravana312@gmail.com.
Scientific Reports
|October 1, 2025
Summary
Optimizing Silicon Nitride (Si₃N₄) filler content, stirring time, and speed in bamboo fiber composites significantly improves wettability and reduces defects. This leads to enhanced mechanical properties for advanced material applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Composites
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Polymer composites reinforced with natural fibers and ceramic fillers are gaining traction.
- Defects like agglomeration and poor wettability hinder performance due to unoptimized processing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize filler percentage, stirring time, and speed for enhanced wettability and dispersion.
- To minimize defects and improve mechanical properties in bamboo fiber-epoxy composites.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an L₂₇ orthogonal array for parameter optimization.
- Investigated Silicon Nitride (Si₃N₄) fillers in bamboo fiber-epoxy composites.
- Employed Combined Compromise Solution (COCOSO) with Artificial Neural Network (ANN) for analysis.
Main Results:
- Optimal parameters identified: 6% Si₃N₄, 12 min stirring time, 350 rpm stirring speed.
- Achieved a 25.1% improvement in wettability.
- Reduced void formation by 79.3%.
Conclusions:
- Precise control over filler content and processing parameters is crucial for high-performance composites.
- Optimized wettability leads to reduced defects and superior mechanical properties.
- Findings offer a pathway for defect-free, high-performance composite manufacturing.
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