Study of Flexural Strength of Epoxy Composites Reinforced with Opuntia Ficus Indica Fibers

This study investigates the potential of Opuntia ficus indica (cactus) fiber as a reinforcing material in composite applications, particularly in combination with an epoxy matrix. Despite being a naturally abundant resource, cactus fiber remains underutilized in engineering. The research focuses on evaluating the flexural strength of cactus fiber-reinforced composites, with particular attention to how variations in fiber volume fraction influence bending strength. As a member of the Cactaceae family, which includes over 130 genera and nearly 1,500 species, cactus fiber offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional materials. With the growing demand for high-performance composite materials, this study underscores the potential of cactus fiber to enhance the mechanical properties and environmental sustainability of composite materials. Composites are prepared using cactus fibers of two lengths (8 mm and 10 mm) and varying weight fractions (20%, 25%, and 30%). The fibers are treated with a 5% Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) solution by soaking it for 24 hours. The study investigates how fiber treatment, length, and loading affects the flexural strength or bending strength of cactus fibers. Results indicate that alkali-treated cactus fiber composites exhibit superior mechanical properties compared to untreated composites. Composites reinforced with 10 mm fibers show improved mechanical behavior over those reinforced with shorter fibers.