MECHANICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF EPOXY RESIN COMPOSITES REINFORCED WITH SUGAR BEET PULP FOR SUSTAINABLE MATERIAL APPLICATIONS

In this study, the mechanical behavior of epoxy resin composites reinforced with 0%, 5%, 10%, and 20% beet pulp (BP) was systematically investigated. The specimens were prepared by casting into silicone molds and subjected to tensile and hardness tests. The results showed that increasing BP content led to a decrease in tensile strength from 36.5 ± 1.6 MPa (neat epoxy) to 23.1 ± 0.5 MPa, and a reduction in Vickers hardness from 9.8 HV to 8.8 HV. SEM analyses revealed that higher BP content caused weak interfacial bonding and pull-out voids, explaining the deterioration in mechanical performance. Although beet pulp has been studied in PLA, LDPE, PP, and starch-based matrices, its direct incorporation into epoxy resin without chemical treatment has not been reported. This study addresses this gap by systematically preparing and characterizing BP-reinforced epoxy composites and evaluating their tensile, hardness, and fracture surface behavior. The findings suggest that such composites may be considered for low-load applications, particularly in furniture panels, decorative coatings, and automotive interior trim components.