Mechanical properties of basalt fiber and <i>Phyllanthus emblica</i> seed particulate reinforced epoxy composites

In the present work, Phyllanthus emblica, also called Amla or Indian gooseberry seed coat powder (ASCP), a lignocellulosic material is being explored for its applicability as a filler material to enhance the mechanical properties of the basalt fiber reinforced epoxy composites. The chemical composition and the functional groups constituting the ASCP was determined through gravimetric analysis and FTIR technique respectively. The basalt fiber-reinforced epoxy composites were prepared by adding 2, 4, and 6 wt.% of ASCP. The composites are prepared through the hand layup and compression molding techniques. The mechanical properties were evaluated using ASTM standards. The highest tensile strength of 235 MPa was obtained for composite with 4 wt.% ASCP which is 33.5% more than the tensile strength of basalt fiber/epoxy composite without the ASCP filler. Composite with 4 wt.% ASCP recorded the highest flexural strength of 357 MPa which is 259% more than the flexural strength of unfilled composite. Highest impact strength of 210 kJ/m2 was obtained for composite with 6 wt.% ASCP. The increase in strength of the ASCP filled composites is attributed to the lignocellulosic content of the ASCP which act as binders and promote stiff mechanical locking with the polymer chain.