Effect of Functionalized Graphene on the Mechanical Properties of Okra Cellulose Nanofibers Epoxy Nanocomposites

Abstract

Towards the use of renewable, biodegradability, low cost, and ecofriendly materials, the recent trend has inclined to the cellulose nanofibers based material in different applications.. The purpose of the present research is to develop a new nanocomposite material. In the present study, the authors have investigated the effect of dispersion of Functionalized Graphene (GP) of epoxy nanocomposites laminates fabricated from Okra Cellulose Nanofibers (CNFs). Nanocomposite materials have been identified as alternative materials for automotive, aerospace, structural, and biomedical applications. The weight of functionalized GP in CNFs was varied from 0.25 wt% to 1 wt%. Mechanical properties measured are for tensile, flexural, impact, and microhardness was used for characterization of functional group and structural analysis in functionalized GP. The distribution and confirmation of functionalized GP in CNFs were analyzed using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The nanocomposites were characterized using tensile, flexural, impact, and microhardness tests based on ASTM standards. Mechanical characterization using nanoindentation techniques also showed significant improvement in mechanical properties of nanocomposites in comparison to CNFs. The 0.75 wt% nanocomposites showed an increase in elastic modulus and hardness, respectively, in comparison to CNFs. The surface morphology of fractured specimens were examined using SEM which revealed good interaction between the GP/CNFs and the epoxy matrix. Overall, this study suggests a prosperous and green route for the fabrication of functionalized GP in CNFs reinforced composites with improved properties such as stiffness, strength, and hardness.