Influence of SiC/BaSO4/Graphite Nano Fillers on the Properties of Flax Fiber-reinforced Epoxy Biocomposites

The fabrication and characterization of eleven distinct flax fiber-reinforced epoxy biocomposites (S1-S11) using varied weight percentages (wt%) of silane-treated silicon carbide (SiC), barium sulfate (BaSO4) and graphite as nano fillers are the main objectives of this work. The primary objective was to evaluate the impact of these reinforcements on density, compressive strength, chemical composition using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Thermogravimetric Analysis. The produced biocomposites included 10 reinforced composites with three-layer flax fiber mats (15 wt%) and a control sample (S1) with simply an epoxy matrix. The nano fillers of 3, 5 and 7 wt% in relation to the matrix were incorporated in the biocomposites. The sample S4 (flax fiber with 5 wt% SiC) had the best mechanical performance in the density and compressive strength tests, making it the most viable option for load-bearing applications. Thermal analysis showed that S11 (flax fiber with 7 wt% graphite) had the highest thermal stability, suggesting enhanced heat resistance. These results demonstrate the potential of flax fiber-based biocomposites with optimal nano filler content for applications requiring enhanced thermal stability and mechanical strength. The study offers insightful information about environmentally friendly composite materials for industrial and structural applications.