Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Arecanut Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composite

Year : 2026 | Volume : 14 | Special Issue 01 | Page : 389 400
    By

    Srikanth H.V.,

  • Praveena B.A.,

  • Santhosh N.,

  • Surpiya B.S.,

  • Karthika A.M.,

  • Raghavendra M.,

  • Srinath M.K.,

  1. Professor, Department of Aeronautical Engineering, Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology, Nitte (Deemed to be University), Yelahanka, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
  2. Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology, Nitte (Deemed to be University), Yelahanka, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
  3. Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Dayananda Sagar Academy of Technology and Management, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
  4. Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology, Nitte (Deemed to be University), Yelahanka, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
  5. Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology, Nitte (Deemed to be University), Yelahanka, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
  6. Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology, Nitte (Deemed to be University), Yelahanka, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
  7. Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, New Horizon College of Engineering, Bangalore, Karnataka, India

Abstract

This study investigates the mechanical performance of arecanut fiber-reinforced epoxy composites, aiming to evaluate their potential for sustainable industrial applications. Arecanut husk fibers, an agricultural waste product, were selected for their natural abundance and biodegradability. To enhance fiber-matrix bonding, the fibers were chemically treated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH), which effectively removes lignin, hemicellulose, and other impurities, improving surface roughness and interfacial adhesion. The treated fibers were then incorporated into an epoxy resin matrix at varying weight fractions of 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, and 50% using the conventional hand lay-up method—a low-cost and accessible fabrication technique suitable for composite development. Mechanical characterization was conducted in accordance with ASTM standards: tensile strength (ASTM D638), flexural strength (ASTM D790), and impact strength (ASTM D256). Among all compositions, the composite with 40% fiber content demonstrated the best overall mechanical performance. It achieved a tensile strength of 48.7 MPa, flexural strength of 78.4 MPa, and impact strength of 4.3 J/cm². These values indicate a 35%–40% enhancement compared to the neat epoxy matrix, showcasing the reinforcing capability of arecanut fibers when optimally loaded. The results suggest that arecanut fiber-reinforced epoxy composites offer a viable and sustainable alternative to conventional synthetic composites. Their favorable strength-to-weight ratio, coupled with eco-friendly characteristics, makes them suitable for diverse applications in automotive interiors, lightweight aerospace components, marine panels, and structural elements in the construction industry. This study underscores the growing relevance of natural fiber composites in addressing sustainability challenges in material science.

Keywords: Arecanut fibres, epoxy, composite, tensile, flexural, impact.

[This article belongs to Special Issue under section in Journal of Polymer & Composites (jopc)]

How to cite this article:
Srikanth H.V., Praveena B.A., Santhosh N., Surpiya B.S., Karthika A.M., Raghavendra M., Srinath M.K.. Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Arecanut Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composite. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(01):389-400.
How to cite this URL:
Srikanth H.V., Praveena B.A., Santhosh N., Surpiya B.S., Karthika A.M., Raghavendra M., Srinath M.K.. Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Arecanut Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composite. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(01):389-400. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2026/view=237002


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Special Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 14
Special Issue 01
Received 04/04/2025
Accepted 20/05/2025
Published 16/02/2026
Publication Time 318 Days
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