Thermo-Acousto-Dielectric (TAD): Bio-based functional material for multifunctional shielding applications

Multifunctional materials are highly valued for their versatility in applications such as stealth material design, noise reduction, and building materials. Although synthetic materials with flexible properties are common, combining multiple desired properties into a single material remains challenging. Biobased materials, which are rich in organic compounds, offer economic, environmental, and biodegradability advantages. Sugarcane bagasse, rich in organic components, offers the potential for materials with versatile thermophysical, acoustic, and dielectric properties when appropriately processed. Raw fibers were dried in sunlight and surface-treated with sodium hydroxide solution via ultrasonication to enhance porosity and remove non-cellulosic components. The composites were fabricated using a hand layup technique with epoxy resin (10:1 ratio). Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray spectroscopy, and infrared spectroscopy analyses were conducted to investigate the morphological and chemical changes induced by the treatment, confirming enhanced porosity and removal of non-cellulosic components. The developed material shows strong thermal insulation capabilities (0.01‐0.05W/mK), effective electromagnetic wave absorption in the X-band microwave range with ‐25 dB reflection loss at 10GHz, and sound absorption rates (80‐90%), making it ideal for use in stealth technology and noise control. Treating the surface with sodium hydroxide significantly improved its structural and compositional qualities by enhancing porosity and removing non-cellulosic components, thereby enhancing its overall performance. By transforming sugarcane bagasse into a high-value, multifunctional material, this study underscores the potential of repurposing agricultural waste, offering a sustainable solution that supports environmental conservation and efficient resource utilization.