Development and Characterization of Bio-Hybrid Composites Reinforced with Sansevieria cylindrica, Bamboo Fibers, Areca Sheath Powder, and ZnO Nanoparticles

This work seeks to develop advanced hybrid composites utilizing compression molding and hand layup techniques. To improve mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties, the composites incorporate 1-3wt% Areca sheath powder and ZnO nanoparticles, reinforced with 20wt% Sansevieria cylindrica and Bamboo fibers. Dynamic analysis for natural frequency and damping factor, tensile testing, impact testing, modulus measurements, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were employed to assess the behaviour of the composites. The identification of functional groups and chemical bonds was enabled by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The mechanical testing demonstrated significant improvements. The tensile strength of the S7-type composite sample arise from 23.13 to 133.11 MPa, while the tensile modulus increased from 2.83 to 15.07 GPa. The S7 composite exhibited superior elastic and viscous properties, as indicated by storage modulus of 2220 MPa and loss modulus 120 MPa, according to the dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) results. The combined effects of Areca sheath powder, ZnO nanoparticles, and natural fibers resulted in improved performance in flammability tests for S7-type composites, achieving a heat release rate of 104.05 kW/m2 and a total heat release of 183.39 MJ/m2. Furthermore, vibration analysis identified a natural frequency of 101 Hz for the S7-type composites, signifying enhanced structural stability and energy dissipation. The findings suggest that these hybrid composites may be used in various domains, including construction, infrastructure, aerospace, marine and the automotive industries.