Multiscale investigation of CNT and TiO2 nanofiller-enhanced JUCO fabric epoxy composites: A combined experimental and FEM approach

• The effects of carbon nanotube (CNT) and titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanofillers on JUCO (jute–cotton) fabric epoxy composites were investigated. • Composites were fabricated using the hand lay-up followed by cold-press technique with nanofiller loadings of 0%, 0.5%, and 1% by weight. • The composite incorporating 0.5 wt. % carbon nanotubes demonstrated the highest mechanical strength and moisture resistance, as evidenced by microstructural observations revealing uniform nanoparticle dispersion and strong fiber–matrix interfacial bonding. • JUCO based nano-filled composites exhibit strong potential for application in consumer products, automotive interiors, marine components, and construction materials. The development of natural fiber-reinforced epoxy composites with nanofillers has gained significant attention due to their eco-friendly, lightweight, and cost-effective nature compared to conventional synthetic materials. However, natural fibers inherently exhibit high moisture absorption and moderate strength, which limit their broader structural applications. This work aims to enhance mechanical properties, reduce moisture uptake and void content by incorporating fillers. JUCO (jute-cotton) fabric epoxy composites were developed with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanofillers. JUCO provides improved strength, flexibility, and durability compared to single jute, and cotton fabrics. The composites were fabricated using the cold press hand lay-up technique with a fixed 29.5 wt% fabric and varying nanofiller. Specimens were immersed in different pH media for 75 days to evaluate durability. The results showed that 0.5 wt% CNT composite exhibited the best moisture resistance, with tensile and flexural strengths of 51.22 MPa and 110 MPa, respectively. The elemental composition, functional groups, and crystallinity were analyzed using EDS, FTIR, and XRD, respectively. Finite element analysis (FEA) supported the tensile and flexural findings, while SEM revealed filler dispersion and bonding. Overall, JUCO-based nanocomposites have potential for consumer products, interior panels, seat frames, door panels, boards, marine, and construction applications.