Enhancing mechanical durability and flame retardancy in Bamboo-Polypropylene composites with nAl₂O₃ fillers

Natural fiber-based nanocomposite is an innovative material created recently, widely used in various industries for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and lightweight properties. The study examined the impact of titanium nanoparticles on the mechanical properties, moisture absorption, flammability, and dynamic mechanical characteristics of polypropylene (PP)/Bamboo fiber. Composite materials consisting of PP, Bamboo fiber, and alumina were manufactured using injection molding. The hybrids’ elongation at break (1.70%), tensile strength (TS), and modulus of elasticity (2124 MPa, 43.1 MPa, and 9%, respectively), were enhanced by adding 9% nano aluminum oxide (nAl₂O₃) nanoparticles to the mix. The clean PP/Bamboo had a modulus of 2189 MPa and bending strength of 39.6 MPa. The PP/Bamboo/Al₂O₃ composite material showed a modulus of 2805 MPa and a bending strength of 56.7 MPa, an increase of 28.46%. Raised nanoparticle concentration resulted in a significant reduction in water absorption (9.1%) and swelling thickness (2.03%). The n-Al₂O₃ was incorporated into composites to improve their dynamic mechanical properties, resulting in a loss modulus of 5.02 MPa and a storage modulus of 12.92 MPa. Additionally, it enhanced fire resistance, leading to a combustion rate of 18 mm min-1 and a char residue of 30%. The endurance of the char barrier is greatly affected by the chemical composition and distribution pattern of the mixture. Char shields with increased nAl₂O₃ content are designed to resist burning and require greater temperatures to break down.