Optimizing potato starch‐based bio‐binder for the production of graphene oxide and cow dung reinforced bamboo composites—A sustainable, eco‐friendly material

Abstract This study presents the development of bio‐composite by naturally sourced, biodegradable constituents, which provide a potentially eco‐friendly alternative to conventional synthetic composites. The developed bamboo bio‐composites are using natural potato starch as a binder reinforced with varying amounts of graphene oxide (GO) and cow dung. The composites were fabricated through the hot press method with optimized processing parameters. Mechanical testing (tensile, flexural, and impact) and water absorption analyses were conducted to evaluate performance. Sample 4 exhibited superior mechanical properties (tensile strength 56.79 MPa; flexural strength 80.15 MPa) and the lowest water absorption (36.60%–38.10% over 6–24 h), outperforming the unreinforced sample. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of cow dung and GO into the starch matrix. These results highlight the potential of hybrid reinforcement with cow dung and GO in a potato starch binder to enhance bamboo bio‐composites' mechanical strength and water resistance. The novelty lies in combining cow dung and graphene oxide within a potato starch binder to create durable, eco‐friendly composites suitable for structural and environmental applications.