Hybrid Epoxy Composites Reinforced with Coconut Sheath and Basalt Fibres: Enhancing Mechanical and Thermal Performance for Sustainable Applications

Abstract

The present study focuses on sustainable biopolymer composites created from coconut sheath and basalt fibres, which are biodegradable, environmentally benign, and have low carbon footprints. High specific strength, superior mechanical performance, reduced weight, and improved thermal stability are all displayed by these materials. Four hybrid epoxy composites (C1–C4) were produced utilizing five stacking sequences and compression moulding, demonstrating that hybridization considerably enhances mechanical characteristics. The hybrid and pure basalt fibre composites have larger storage moduli than untreated coconut sheath fibre-reinforced epoxy (2.1 GPa). The greatest glass transition temperature (Tg) for C4 has been determined to be 118°C. These low-cost, non-toxic composites provide environmentally friendly options for use in the electronics, packaging, automotive, and construction sectors.