Synergistic Effect of Green Nanofillers on Basalt–Kenaf Reinforced Sustainable Polymer Composites

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Year : 2026 | Volume : 14 | 02 | Page :
    By

    V Ravi Raj,

  • M Dharani,

  • S Karthick,

  • G Ashwin Prabhu,

  • R B Senthilrajan,

  • R. Karthikeyan,

  • Jeriel Samuel J,

  • Madhan Kumar D,

  1. Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Sairam Engineering College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  2. Lecturer, Department of Physics, Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering and Technology(CIPET), Thiruvathavur, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
  3. Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, Global Institute of Engineering and Technology, Melvisharam, Ranipet, Tamil Nadu, India
  4. Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, St. Joseph’s College of Engineering, Old Mahabalipuram Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  5. Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Sethu Institute of Technology, Pulloor, Kariapatti, Tamil Nadu, India
  6. Assistant Professor, Department of Automobile Engineering, Rajalakshmi Engineering College (Autonomous), Thandalam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  7. UG Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering, St. Joseph’s College of Engineering, Old Mahabalipuram Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  8. UG Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering, St. Joseph’s College of Engineering, Old Mahabalipuram Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

This study examines the synergistic impact of green nanofillers on the mechanical and structural properties of basalt–kenaf fiber reinforced polyester composites, with the objective of developing sustainable, high-performance polymer materials. The composites were produced with different fiber ratios: B1 (70% basalt, 30% kenaf), B2 (60% basalt, 40% kenaf), and B3 (50% basalt, 50% kenaf), and were reinforced with 1 wt.% green-synthesized nano-TiO2, obtained using an eco-friendly sol–gel technique with plant extracts. The use of nanofillers markedly improved the interfacial adhesion between fibers and the polyester matrix. B2 demonstrated superior performance among the formulations, attaining a tensile strength of 165 MPa, a flexural strength of 228 MPa, and an impact energy of 17.3 kJ/m², representing a 20–25% enhancement compared to the non-nano composites. The density diminished by 10%, indicating enhanced lightweight properties, while SEM analysis verified consistent nano-TiO2 distribution and diminished microvoid occurrence. The synergistic impact of high-strength basalt fibers, natural kenaf reinforcement, and eco-friendly nanofillers yielded an exceptional equilibrium between mechanical performance and environmental sustainability. The research finds that green nano-enhanced basalt–kenaf composites present a feasible, environmentally sustainable option for structural, automotive, and marine applications, in accordance with green engineering and circular economy principles.

Keywords: Basalt-Kenaf Hybrid Composites, Green Nanofillers, Nano-TiO2, Sustainable Polymer Composites, Mechanical Properties, Eco-Friendly Materials.

How to cite this article:
V Ravi Raj, M Dharani, S Karthick, G Ashwin Prabhu, R B Senthilrajan, R. Karthikeyan, Jeriel Samuel J, Madhan Kumar D. Synergistic Effect of Green Nanofillers on Basalt–Kenaf Reinforced Sustainable Polymer Composites. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(02):-.
How to cite this URL:
V Ravi Raj, M Dharani, S Karthick, G Ashwin Prabhu, R B Senthilrajan, R. Karthikeyan, Jeriel Samuel J, Madhan Kumar D. Synergistic Effect of Green Nanofillers on Basalt–Kenaf Reinforced Sustainable Polymer Composites. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(02):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2026/view=240366


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Ahead of Print Subscription Original Research
Volume 14
02
Received 08/01/2026
Accepted 28/01/2026
Published 20/04/2026
Publication Time 102 Days
1

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