Development and Characterization of Sustainable Epoxy Biocomposites Reinforced with Coconut Shell Powder and GNP

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Sustainable polymer composites are crucial for multifunctional engineering applications.
• Renewable resources and advanced nanomaterials offer promising reinforcement options.
• Epoxy-based biocomposites (EBCs) are gaining attention for their environmental benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an environmentally friendly epoxy-based biocomposite (EBC) reinforced with coconut shell powder (CSP) and graphene nanopowder (GNP).
• To investigate the effects of varying graphene nanopowder (GNP) concentrations on the multifunctional properties of the EBC.
• To assess the potential of CSP and GNP reinforced EBCs for various engineering applications.

Main Methods:

• A casting process was used to produce the epoxy-based biocomposite.
• Coconut shell powder (CSP) served as a bio-based filler.
• Graphene nanopowder (GNP) was incorporated at concentrations from 0 to 0.75 wt.%, and properties were systematically evaluated.

Main Results:

• Graphene nanopowder (GNP) significantly enhanced bulk density, tensile strength, Shore D hardness, thermal conductivity, dielectric properties, and thermal stability.
• Optimum tensile strength (28.6 MPa) and Shore D hardness (77.4) were achieved at 0.45 wt.% GNP, indicating effective stress transfer.
• Improved structural compactness and homogeneous filler dispersion were observed with SEM and EDX analysis.

Conclusions:

• The developed CSP and GNP reinforced EBC exhibits enhanced multifunctional properties.
• The composite shows significant potential for lightweight structural materials, thermal management, and dielectric components.
• This research contributes to the development of sustainable and high-performance engineering materials.