Characterization of silane-treated wheat husk biomass Si₃N₄ and castor stem sheath fibre-epoxy composite

Mechanical, wear, and flammability behavior of castor sheath fiber-epoxy composite has been investigated in this research influence of silane treated wheat husk Si3N4 addition. Investigating how the silane treatment on the fiber and filler effect on the load bearing, abrasion, and flame properties was the main goal of this research project. Novel caster sheath fiber and Si3N4 were used in hand layup technique to prepare the composites. Results show notable improvement in mechanical, wear, and flammability characteristics attained by use of silane-treated castor sheath fibers and Si₃N₄ particles. With a tensile strength of 160.5 MPa and a tensile modulus of 5.5 GPa, specimen E3 showed remarkable tensile qualities; additionally, it showed exceptional flexural strength with a flexural modulus of 6.6 GPa. Emphasizing its strength and resilience to mechanical stress, E3 also displayed the maximum izod impact strength of 5 J. The 2.0% silane-treated Si₃N₄ particles are responsible for these developments since they greatly raised the strength, modulus, and toughness of the composite by means of load transmission and stress concentration point reduction. For hardness, wear, and flammability, however, specimen E4 showed the best values. Its coefficient of friction (COF) was 0.26, wear rate was 0.012 mm¹/Nm, and hardness was 97 shore D. E4 recorded a propagation speed of 7.81 mm/min and a UL-94 V-0 rating in terms of flammability, therefore proving better fire resistance and self-extinguishing capacity. Though particle agglomeration somewhat hindered its mechanical performance, the 4.0% silane-treated Si₃N₄ particles in E4 supported to provide high thermal stability, effective heat dissipation, and better wear resistance, so contributing to these characteristics. A plain resin matrix without reinforcement, fiber breakage stressing the need of fiber integrity, enhanced adhesion between the matrix and filler demonstrating effective silane treatment, and agglomerated filler particles indicating the need of optimal filler concentration revealed by the SEM analysis. With specimen E3 ideal for mechanical uses and specimen E4 outstanding in wear resistance and fire safety, the study finds generally that the tailored incorporation of silane-treated fibers and particles greatly improves the mechanical, wear, and flammability properties of the composite.