Experimental investigation of the effect of cotton flakes nanoparticles on the mechanical and electrical properties of epoxy/cotton flakes polymer composites

Cotton flakes nanoparticles serve as versatile fillers across a wide range of industries, including aerospace, construction, transportation, and composite molding. To enhance resin viscosity for bonding applications within the aerospace industry, this study investigates the impact of cotton flakes nanoparticles on the mechanical and electrical properties of epoxy/cotton flakes polymer nanocomposites. To optimize properties, samples with varying weight percentages were fabricated. Mechanical properties were assessed via tensile and three-point bending tests, while dielectric constant measurements determined electrical characteristics. A comparative analysis of mechanical and electrical properties was conducted between samples containing varying cotton flakes percentages and a pure epoxy resin control. Results indicated that the maximum tensile strength for pure resin, 13 %wt cotton flakes, and 22 %wt cotton flakes samples was 18, 35, and 30 MPa, respectively. The maximum flexural strengths of pure resin, 13 %wt cotton flakes, and 22 %wt cotton flakes were determined to be 109, 85, and 67 MPa, respectively. Similarly, the maximum dielectric constant for pure resin, 13 %wt cotton flakes, and 33 %wt cotton flakes was measured as 2.95, 3.1, and 3.18, respectively. Mechanical and electrical properties evaluation revealed that the incorporation of cotton flakes filler into the resin matrix did not adversely affect the mechanical and electrical properties of the resin but also improved the properties.