Mechanical Analysis and Advanced Manufacturing of Eco-Friendly Groundnut Shell Powder Reinforced Epoxy Composites

Year : 2025 | Volume : 13 | Special Issue 05 | Page : 174 185
    By

    M Santhosh,

  • D. Priya Matharasi,

  • G Ashwin Prabhu,

  • Siva M,

  • Arivarasu M,

  • Athithyan R,

  1. Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Nehru Institute of Engineering and Technology, Nehru Gardens, Nehru College Road, T.M Palayam, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
  2. Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, St. Joseph’s Institute of Technology, Old Mahabalipuram Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  3. Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, St. Joseph’s College of Engineering, Old Mahabalipuram Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  4. Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, St. Joseph’s College of Engineering, Old Mahabalipuram Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  5. UG Scholar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, St. Joseph’s College of Engineering, Old Mahabalipuram Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  6. UG Scholar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, St. Joseph’s College of Engineering, Old Mahabalipuram Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Polymer composites reinforced with natural materials are gaining significant attention because of their eco-friendly nature, cost-effectiveness, and favorable mechanical properties. This research explores the creation and mechanical analysis of epoxy composites strengthened with groundnut shell powder (GSP), exploring both untreated and benzoyl chloride-treated GSP variations. The research emphasizes utilizing agricultural waste material while achieving enhanced mechanical properties through surface modification and advanced fabrication techniques. The composites were manufactured using the vacuum bag molding method, with varying GSP compositions of 15%, 25%, 35%, and 45% by weight. Surface modification of GSP was performed using benzoyl chloride solution treatment to improve fiber-matrix adhesion. The fabricated specimens underwent comprehensive mechanical testing, including tensile, flexural, and impact tests according to ASTM standards. Results demonstrated that the alkaline-treated GSP the composites demonstrated enhanced mechanical properties when compared to the untreated specimens. The 35% treated GSP composition showed optimal performance, achieving a peak tensile strength of 14.40 MPa and a flexural stress of 554.65 N/mm², and consistent impact strength of 2 joules. The vacuum bag molding technique, implemented for the first time with GSP reinforced polymer composites, proved effective in reducing void formation and improving surface finish. This study demonstrates the capability of treated GSP-reinforced epoxy composites to serve as an eco-friendly substitute for conventional materials, particularly when fabricated using advanced manufacturing methods. The findings contribute to the growing field of natural fiber-based composites and their uses in various industries where mechanical performance and environmental considerations are paramount.

Keywords: Groundnut shell powder (GSP), epoxy reinforcement, surface modification, benzoyl chloride treatment, vacuum bag moulding, agricultural waste.

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

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How to cite this article:
M Santhosh, D. Priya Matharasi, G Ashwin Prabhu, Siva M, Arivarasu M, Athithyan R. Mechanical Analysis and Advanced Manufacturing of Eco-Friendly Groundnut Shell Powder Reinforced Epoxy Composites. Journal of Polymer and Composites. 2025; 13(05):174-185.
How to cite this URL:
M Santhosh, D. Priya Matharasi, G Ashwin Prabhu, Siva M, Arivarasu M, Athithyan R. Mechanical Analysis and Advanced Manufacturing of Eco-Friendly Groundnut Shell Powder Reinforced Epoxy Composites. Journal of Polymer and Composites. 2025; 13(05):174-185. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2025/view=223172


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Special Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 13
Special Issue 05
Received 07/02/2025
Accepted 28/03/2025
Published 15/06/2025
Publication Time 128 Days
202

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