Mechanical Testing and Optimization of Bamboo and Tamarind Fiber Composites

Abstract

The robustness and hardness of biofiber composites produced of bamboo and tamarind fibers were investigated in this study. In contrast to synthetic fibers, these fibers are inexhaustible, lightweight, cost-effective, and biodegradable. While natural fibers have several advantages over synthetic fibers, one disadvantage is that they are hydrophilic. The hydrophilic aspect of fibers makes it difficult for the matrix and fibers to fuse well. So the fibers are chemically processed with sodium hydroxide, potassium permanganate, acrylic acid, and benzene diazonium chloride to improve their cohesiveness. These treatments change the surface texture and biocomposition, allowing fibers and resin to adhere properly. The fabrication process is completed using the hand layup method. The specimens were made with varying weight ratios of fiber composition (10, 20, 30, 40, and 50%). The specimens were tested for strength using ASTM standards. Chemical procedures changed the fiber structure and improved the composite’s performance, according to the study. 40% fiber weight composite specimen handled with benzene diazonium chloride had superior strength properties to untreated and chemically handled fibers. The moisture content of untreated and treated fibers was tested, and the results showed that the fibers treated with benzene diazonium chloride had less moisture. The dielectric strength test results revealed that 40% wt of fiber treated with benzene diazonium chloride has a higher dielectric strength.