Development of High-performance Peepal Fiber/Epoxy Composites with ZrO₂ Nanofiller for Structural Applications

Natural fiber reinforced polymer composites are increasingly favored for applications in both commercial and residential environments. This study seeks to improve the mechanical properties of peepal (P) fiber and epoxy resin (E) composites through the incorporation of zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles as a filler. The composites were fabricated using the compression molding process, with the filler used at varying amounts (0 wt%, 1 wt%, 3 wt%, 5 wt%, 7 wt%). Tensile, hardness, and impact tests were performed on the fabricated composites. The mechanical properties, including tensile strength, impact resistance, and hardness were enhanced in the S1 composite. The uniform dispersion of ZrO2 nanoparticles and their enhancement of load transfer between the epoxy matrix and peepal fiber were the principal factors contributing to the improvement in hardness and strength. Infrared spectroscopy validated the beneficial effects of alkaline treatment on the peepal fiber. This experimental study seeks to improve peepal-epoxy composites through the use of fillers, aiming to produce lightweight and highly durable components for aerospace and automotive industries. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to analyze the fracture surfaces.