Graphene Reinforced Natural Fiber Nanocomposites for Structural Applications

An attempt has been made to develop novel polymer based nano composite material reinforced with natural fibre, synthetic fillers at both micro and nano-levels with increased performance in terms of mechanical properties. This work involves development of a new nano-composite material consisting of L-12 epoxy resin, graphene at nano, hemp fibres at micro levels. The percentage composition of hemp fibres is varied from 0.3%, 0.5% and 0.7% by weight of the holding matrix, A fixed dosage of graphene nano particle of 0.3wt% of holding matrix is taken. A suitable surface modification method is employed for natural fibre treatment in order to adhere the nano-particles, this paper shall be dealing with the surface adhesion by corona method. Surfactants like NaOH and KMnO₄ were applied on the fibres. Fibers used as a reinforcement with epoxy to form composite material to enhance the adhesion between the fillers and holding matrix alkalisation. To determine interferential adhesion and homogeneous distribution of fibres in the holding matrix Spectroscopic analysis such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were conducted. Mechanical testing like tensile and three-point bending tests were carried out. Among the varied 0.5% of NaOH and KMnO₄ treated hemp containing graphene has given optimistic results as compared to other dosage levels. (paper)