Characterization of Mechanical, Thermal, and Chemical Properties of Natural Fiber Composites: A Case Study of Bamboo Leaves and Coconut Leaves

The research project focused on investigating the mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties of composite plates made from bamboo leaves and coconut leaves reinforced with epoxy resin that has received limited attention in previous studies. The bamboo and coconut leaves underwent alkaline treatment, were thoroughly washed with distilled water, and dried in sunlight for 24 hours. For the fabrication of three composite plates, Hand lay up method was employed according to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. The compositions of the composite plates were varied as first Composition has 25 wt% bamboo leaves, 25 wt% coconut leaves and 50 wt% resin, the Second Composition has 30 wt% bamboo leaves, 30 wt% coconut leaves, and 40 wt% resin and the third composition has 35 wt% bamboo leaves, 35 wt% coconut leaves, and 30 wt% resin. Tensile test, shear and flexural tests helped determine the tensile strength, shear strength, and flexural strength of the composite materials. Additionally, Thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) was performed according to ASTM E-1131 to assess the degradation temperature of the composite plates. Additionally, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) tests were also conducted to identify the functional groups of the organic materials present with in the composite plates. The outcomes of this research are anticipated to contribute to a more sustainable utilization of waste bamboo and coconut leaves.