EVALUATION OF HARDNESS AND IMPACT STRENGTH OF EPOXY COMPOSITES REINFORCED WITH CACTUS FIBERS

Opuntia ficus indica (cactus), a naturally abundant resource, is largely underutilized in engineering applications.This study explores the potential of cactus fiber as a reinforcing material in composite applications, using it in combination with an epoxy matrix.The research focuses on analyzing the mechanical properties of cactus fiber reinforced composites, specifically examining the effects of fiber volume fraction on hardness and impact strength.Cactus fiber, part of the Cactaceae family with over 130 genera and nearly 1500 species, offers a sustainable alternative to traditional materials.As the demand for composite materials grows due to their superior performance and environmental benefits, this study highlights the promise of cactus fiber in enhancing the properties of composites.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 hardness property and impact 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.