Comparative Analysis of Tensile Properties of Virgin and Rice Husk-Reinforced PLA and ABS Filaments

Year : 2025 | Volume : 13 | Issue : 06 | Page : 224 229
    By

    R. Sudarshan,

  • P.V.R Girish Kumar,

  • V. Siva Prasad,

  1. Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Geethanjali College of Engineering and Technology, Cheeryal (V), Keesara (M), Medchal (D), Telangana, India
  2. Senior Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Geethanjali College of Engineering and Technology, Cheeryal (V), Keesara (M), Medchal (D), Telangana, India
  3. Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, PACE Institute of Technology and Sciences, Ongole, Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

This study focuses on evaluating the tensile behavior of polylactic acid (PLA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) filaments reinforced with rice husk ash (RHA) particles, in comparison with their respective virgin counterparts. The incorporation of RHA, an abundant agricultural waste by-product, was considered with the objective of developing eco-friendly composites suitable for additive manufacturing applications. Tensile testing was carried out to assess the influence of the reinforcement on the mechanical performance of the materials. The results demonstrated that the addition of rice husk ash generally led to a reduction in tensile strength for both PLA and ABS composites when compared to their neat forms. This decrease can be attributed to the weak interfacial bonding between the polymer matrix and inorganic particles, which often acts as a stress concentrator during loading. However, a notable finding was observed in the case of PLA-based composites, where the elongation at break showed an improvement with RHA reinforcement. This suggests that while the composites may have slightly lower load-bearing capacity, they exhibit enhanced ductility and flexibility, making them more suitable for applications where toughness is prioritized over high strength. The improved elongation also indicates a potential benefit of stress redistribution provided by the ash particles, thereby delaying premature failure. These findings highlight the potential of utilizing rice husk ash as a sustainable filler for thermoplastic filaments in 3D printing, promoting value-added applications of agricultural waste. Overall, the study supports the feasibility of designing greener composite materials that balance mechanical performance with environmental responsibility.

Keywords: Polylactic acid (PLA); Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); Rice husk ash (RHA); Tensile properties; Additive manufacturing; 3D printing; Polymer composites; Mechanical behavior; Agricultural waste utilization; Sustainable materials.

[This article belongs to Journal of Polymer and Composites ]

How to cite this article:
R. Sudarshan, P.V.R Girish Kumar, V. Siva Prasad. Comparative Analysis of Tensile Properties of Virgin and Rice Husk-Reinforced PLA and ABS Filaments. Journal of Polymer and Composites. 2025; 13(06):224-229.
How to cite this URL:
R. Sudarshan, P.V.R Girish Kumar, V. Siva Prasad. Comparative Analysis of Tensile Properties of Virgin and Rice Husk-Reinforced PLA and ABS Filaments. Journal of Polymer and Composites. 2025; 13(06):224-229. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2025/view=232863


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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 13
Issue 06
Received 25/09/2025
Accepted 09/10/2025
Published 11/11/2025
Publication Time 47 Days
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