Evaluation of Tensile and Flexural Properties of Coconut Coir and Coconut Shell Powder Reinforced Epoxy Composites

Abstract

The prime objective of this research is to investigate the potentiality of coconut coir and coconut shell powder as reinforcements in preparation of polymer composites as an ecological alternative to glass, carbon and other man-made fibers. In the present work the mechanical properties namely tensile and flexural properties are evaluated by preparing composites using coconut coir fiber and coconut shell powder by mixing with polymer. In tensile test the composite made from HCL treated coconut coir and untreated coconut shell powder exhibits more strength as compared untreated composite. In flexural test the composite made from HCL treated coconut shell powder and untreated coconut coir exhibits more strength as compared to untreated composite. Hence the result obtained from the tests concludes that the HCL treatment enhances the mechanical properties as compared to untreated composites.