Fabrication and assessment on morphological, thermal stability and self‐healing efficiency of microcapsule‐based jute/epoxy bio‐composites

Abstract In this study, microcapsule‐based jute fiber reinforced epoxy self‐healing composites were fabricated using the vacuum bagging technique. Water‐soluble epoxy microcapsules were synthesized by the in‐situ polymerization method. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis showed that the substantial microcapsule size varies from 3 to 15 μm. Microcapsule of 3 wt.% amount was incorporated in the sample. Healing capability of the composite was assessed via impact strength recovery. Incorporating microcapsules within the cracked surface of the composite facilitated healing, demonstrating notable improvements in efficiency. Results indicated that the epoxy composite healed from a 1 mm deep crack exhibited higher impact strength recovery than samples healed from a 1.5 mm deep crack, with healing efficiencies of 83.9% and 78.89%, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra and energy dispersive x‐ray of the sample confirmed the presence of relevant chemical groups in both microcapsules and the composite. In thermogravimetric analysis, it is found a mass loss of 10.3% during the initial stage of decomposition, occurring between 180 and 250°C following the final phase of thermal degradation upto 500°C. Highlights Microcapsule‐based self‐healing jute/epoxy bio‐composite has been fabricated. 3 wt.% water‐soluble epoxy microcapsules were incorporated in sample preparation. Healing assessment was investigated using impact strength recovery method. Maximum 83.9% efficiency was measured for healing from pristine sample. Samples were undergone SEM, EDX, FT‐IR, and TGA analysis.