Investigation Effect of Alkaline Treatment on Mechanical Behavior of Agro-Waste Filler Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composite

The current investigation aimed to produce fiber-reinforced composites using Areca nut as the natural fiber component. The Areca nut fiber was subjected to an alkaline treatment to improve its quality after being obtained from the market. The composite was augmented using a natural filler material and natural fiber. Four samples were prepared using Epoxy resin, which comprised 60% of the total weight. The hardener was added at 10% in kg/sq.cm. The fiber content varied from 25% to 40% in each successive sample, with a 5% increase. Similarly, the filler material ranged from 0% to 15% in each sample, with a 5% increase. These samples were prepared following established laying techniques. Afterwards, following ASTM standards, the composite samples underwent mechanical property testing, including tensile strength, impact strength, and flexural strength. The analysis found that “Sample 2” of the Areca hybrid natural fiber-reinforced polymer composite has excellent mechanical properties, with a maximum tensile strength of 14.646 N/mm2, flexural strength of 22.812 MPa, and an optimal impact value of 0.25 J.