Enhancing Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Unsaturated Polyester Resin with Luffa Fiber Reinforcements: A Volumetric Analysis

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of Luffa Fiber (LF) inclusions on the mechanical and thermal characteristics of unsaturated polyester resin composites. LFs, manually extracted from luffa plants, are integrated at volumetric fractions of 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% into the resin using a hand lay-up technique at ambient conditions. Subsequent machining prepares the samples for mechanical analysis. It is observed that mechanical properties enhance progressively with increased LF incorporation. The optimal impact resistance reaches 2.34KJ/m2, with maximum hardness and compressive strength values of 81.5N/mm2 and 43.9MPa, respectively. Concurrently, a notable reduction in thermal conductivity is evident, particularly at the 25% LF volume, where it measures approximately 0.105W/m.℃. These findings indicate that the LF-reinforced polyester composites exhibit potential for varied engineering applications. Particularly, their augmented mechanical robustness suits components such as sofa parts and door handles, while their improved thermal insulation properties render them suitable for building insulation. This investigation underscores the viability of LF as a reinforcing agent in polymeric composites, offering a balance of enhanced mechanical strength and thermal efficiency, thereby broadening the scope of their application in engineering domains.