4665-Article Text-8596-1-10-20210504

Annals of R.S.C.B., ISSN:1583-6258, Vol. 25, Issue 4, 2021, Pages.
14762 - 14780
Received 05 March 2021; Accepted 01 April 2021.
Physical Properties and Behavior of Flax Fiber Reinforced Epoxy

Composites with Tio2filler Addition
J.Sureshbabu1, Dr.S.Chakradhara Goud2 Dr.V.S.S.Murthy3
1Ph.D.Research Scholar, Department of mechanical engineering, Shri

JagdishprasadJhabarmalTibrewala University, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan.
2 Professor, Department of mechanical engineering, Shri JagdishprasadJhabarmalTibrewala
University, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan.
3Professor ,Department of mechanical engineering,
K.S.R.M.CollegeofEngineering,Kadapa,Andhrapradesh
ABSTRACT
This analysis aims to establish the physical characteristics of flax fibre. The physicochemical
characteristics of fibres made from sisal and flax have been determined in this experiment.
Lightweight, machining attributes are a vital part of the appeal of their importance as a
commodity. The effect every form of material had on the overall mix, the sum of every other
fibre, density, porosity, elasticity including water permeability was assessed. That one was
identified that perhaps the form of fibre, the volume of the combination, as well as the bulk
density had a significant role in deciding the porous structure as well as the bulk density.
Even then, the particle size of the formulation was considerably larger for that mixture,
exhibiting up to double the particle size of both the conventional aggregate. Although the
versatile Young's modulus was responsive to both the existence of steel fibres, these
reductions were not significantly essential. Research has shown that Flax Fibre Material
Composite is durative, sustainable, bio-degradable, flammable as well as economically
feasible. Research on this topic can aid in growing the yield of flax fibres with ease. The
paper discusses different fibres, including physical characteristics, fibre fabric forms,
manufacturing techniques, plain woven as well as failure criteria. Successful developments in
the area of standard fibre reinforced composite materials therefore resulted in a
reestablishment of problems in the field includes designing as well as biomedical
investigation.
Keywords: Naturalfiber, Epofline556,TIO2,EpoxyResin,Mechanical Properties.
1. Introduction
Natural fiber reinforced composite has increased a great deal of consideration in the field of
designing as of late. Light weight and effectiveness in machining are a portion of the attractive
perspectives which flourish them as a desirable product. The objective of this research work is to
explore the impact of scattering Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticle in Flax fiber strengthened
epoxy composite. Matrix alteration is done by blending Nano TiO2 in epoxy resin which thus expands
the mechanical characteristics of the composite by improving the fiber framework holding. Matrix
Epofine 556 with Fine hard 1972 hardener selected as an Matrix material. In this research Flax fiber
http://annalsofrscb.ro 14762
Annals of R.S.C.B., ISSN:1583-6258, Vol. 25, Issue 4, 2021, Pages. 14762 - 14780
woven mat used as reinforcement. Hand layup procedure is preferred as the manufacturing method
and the mechanical characteristics regarding hardness, impact strength tensile strength are evaluated.
Natural fiber, Epofline556, TiO2,Epoxy Resin, Mechanical characteristics.
The use of natural materials as just a replacement for glass fibres is a new choice for sustainable
composites. Perhaps one of the most essential fibres often sought after for experimentation is flax
fibre extracted through flax tree. Straw was typically used more as a broom, cord, paintbrush, as well
as roof. Those other materials have the ability for bio-composites in the future. A lot of the research
that have been carried out through flax composite materials used epoxy as just a matrix, but there is
always very little experiments has also been performed utilizing polyester as a resin [1-3]. The
unsaturated polyester resin has become the most commonly used process in this industry, and it is
becoming an essential information in this industry. Both are attributed to how effective the product is
for its intended use. Reclaimed natural fibres are being used in the manufacture of patio furniture,
fishing equipment, automotive and marine equipment. Most of these composite materials are
subjected to UV, humidity through rain, snow as well as humidity, and thus weathering, moisture
absorption, creep, as well as decay resilience are critical parameters to assess the improvement in
properties of the structure of environmental factors. These investigations concentrate on the absorbing
water by non-woven polypropylene fabrics reinforced with saturated fats polyester fibres. The key
issues for use of composite materials fiber - reinforced composites being whose vulnerability to water
absorption, as well as their disparate structural and physicochemical characteristics [4-5].
Consequently, there is a significant problem with using natural fibres, and that it must be addressed
while studying composite materials.
Their extraordinarily high intensity, its unique strength property does not decline over a longer period.
From the other side, fibres like cotton, jute as well as sisal however have caught the interest among
scientists as well as researchers in technologies of consumer items, reduced - cost buildings as well as
related equipment [6,7]. All such composite materials compositions have excellent electrical as well
as damage tolerance, strong acoustic as well as thermal insulating nature, including higher function of
breakup along with unique strengths compared to glass fibre-reinforced composite (GFRC) [8,9].
There have also been attempts for using fibre reinforced polymers since as early as 1868 in seating of
aircraft, although further around 1941- 1946 for bearing as well as fuselage of aircraft, and also for
bearing for naval vessels. In recent attempts made that discover alternative applications for natural
materials and polymers by researching them. Of most of these analyses, the large amount with resin
consumed is the only drawback. The strengthening is given mostly in fibrous form [10-12].
The common flax, LinumUsitatissimum member of the grass family of Linaceae, is currently widely
spread throughout the near the equator part of the globe [13,14]. Each seeds of that same crop are
ground linseed, that is used for manufacturing linseed oil. This plant contains high levels of between
90 and 120 cm, as well as between 0.15 and 0.3 cm in dia. Fibres are indeed being extracted from of
the crop through a process of fermentation. In this herb, the flax fibres exist in clusters throughout the
pericycle. 1Depending on the variety of both the rhizome, the quantity usually runs around 15 to 40,
and that each bunch is composed of 15 to 40 specialized fibres [15,16]. Both of these specialized
fibres are of different lengths, ranging from 8mm to 30mm. The primary fibre of a professional fibre
is about 30 and 90 millimeters. Hydroxyl groups found in the flax fibres are responsible for binding
with resins. Some forms of epoxy resins have great tensile strength as well as good stiffness. The
main downside of epoxy resins with commercial use is that they are too brittle, as well as increased
cost. In reinforcing material of its composite materials, that optimal reinforcing phase can improve
their mechanical properties, increase the durability as well as lower the price of the composite
materials. The topic of this article provides information regarding efficiency of materials used for
fiberglass/epoxy composite. Exploring the variations between which fibres are used in foods has been
undertaken. After mixing the diluted resin into the fibres, the fibres were then inseminated with the
distilled resin. Several other alterations also were done on the cotton fibre, which included an
improved output [17,18].
A physical behaviour is any characteristic which is observable, its value represents a condition of a
physical phenomenon. The variations in the physical characteristic of the system are being used to
explain the variations among temporary states. Physical characteristics often are pointed as the
measurements. Characteristics could also be graded w.r.t the directionality of their existence [19]. For
reference, isotropic characteristics don't really alter mostly with orientation of the observation,
whereas anisotropic characteristics also have spatial heterogeneity. It may even be tough to decide
how often a given nature is a material characteristic or not. Pigment, for instance, are seen as well as
measured; nevertheless, what someone recognizes as color is indeed an approximation including its
reflective characteristics of such a surface as well as the lighting often used for illuminate it.
Throughout this context, several ostensibly physiological characteristics are known supervenient [20].
2.Literature survey
Arifuzzaman Kabir Khan and Muhammad.Terano [2] clarified the natural-composites as either an
ideal replacement of a plain-woven flax cloth strengthened with (poly lactic acid - PLLA) composite
materials have been produced mostly by heated press moulding process. The research examined the
effects of knitted fabric as well as how it affects their study's over mechanical property. It also was
observed that based on the data, the warp and weft are stronger than normal from one direction to the
other. The researchers determined that the strength of composites based on flax fibre was much more
than that of non-knitted composites.
The paper by Ajith Gopinath et.al [3] demonstrated that, the fibrous flax demonstrated excellent
tensile strength as well as flexural strength. It is not accurate that the time required for such flax
polymer composites is extremely limited comparison mostly to production time of flax epoxy
composites. The findings of this study show that flax-epoxy, which does have a greater amount of
elasticity but allows less compression that flax-polyester, has an excellent mechanical quality best
suited to automobiles. As a super composite, it incorporates the unique properties of special metallic
materials, as well as restricted properties of various insulating materials, which have particular
advantages, acting as a store of potential energy, etc. to help satisfy the needs of many areas of
engineering. When it comes to "Tadpole" construction, to retain the success of this construction, you
will have to keep playing for different choices.
Md. Rashnal Hossain and Md. eAminul Islam.[4] stated that longitudinal orientation, therein, the
tensile strength as well as stiffness of 0-0 degree-oriented laminate composites were considered to be
greater compare with those of 0-45 degree and 0-90 degree-oriented laminate composites. Presence of
such a significant level of transverse direction decrease with increasing transverse direction, which
then leads to a decreased percentage of tensile fracture of the material. In every direction,
nevertheless, the patterns for bonding strength testing results appeared opposite. In that case for
transverse orientation of 0\0\0\0 [symmetric] composite materials strengthened flax fibre encountered
dramatic splitting as well as fibrillation. In this situation, the increased amount of flax fibres in the
mineral-impregnated epoxy resin is assumed to be the key explanation for the weak transverse
material characteristics of the laminate composite. The failure of 3-point bending strength of the
uncured composite (Unidirectional, 0/0/45), however, still showed a much weaker point. The lithium-
ion chemistry is generating a likelihood of failure by causing the battery to crack and shatter at higher
strengths.
Hind Abdellaoui et.al [5] clarified that only the production and analysis of material properties with
composite structure based on flax fibres as well as resin. The embossed material being formed using a
compression technique as per two flax fibre orientation (0 degree and 45 degree), as well as 2
different cutting ways (0 degree and 45 degree). Investigatory findings demonstrate that its
mechanical properties enhance with increasing the number of layers. The maximal young’s modulus
for the laminate of one, three, five, seven layers have been found that respective values of 5264, 5902,
6400 as well as 5562 MPa in case of 0-degree fibre direction and 0 degree cutting direction. This was
also found and the use of various staking orientation decreases the anisotropic characterization of
gathered composite materials. The influence of layer's numbers and fibre directions on the mechanical
behaviour of composites was checked.
N. M. News et. al. [7] explained that fibre orientation-based thickness distribution for injection
moulded PC - polycarbonate specimens were experimentally analyzed by optical reflecting
microscopy as well as digital technology with smoothened cross sections. To evaluate the fibre
dimension distribution, the pyrolysis tests accompanied by image processing was used. A researcher
used mathematical modelling methods to estimate the length and direction of the imaging of fibre.
The thickness and stiffness were determined from the thickness parameter and orientation changes,
respectively. This study has used beam stiffness distribution model developed by a FEM analysis
simulation that behavior of beams is being subjected through 3 points bend and one of the ANSYS
FEM analysis models. The amount of flexural bending resulted in different intensity of mechanical
properties all along flow craft as well as in transverse direction of flow. The effects including its flow
rate as well as the melting temperature upon this deformation as well as fibre orientations are
calculated here.
I.V. Surendra, et. al. [7]reported it would be to the production as well as evaluation of the mechanical
behaviour of the sisal fibre reinforced polymer composite material as well as Hybrid (sisal + flax +
okra) fibre reinforced reinforced polymer composites. Hybrid composite is produced via incorporating
35 percent of sisal, 35 percent of flax as well as 30 percent of flax fibre. Mechanical behavior
including such Tensile parameters (strength, modulus), Flexural parameters (strength, modulus),
Impact strength while exposed to different quantities of natural fibre (0.4, 0.8, 1.2, 1.6, 2 gms.) were
measured.
In an experiment performed by A. N. M. Masudur Rahmaneet.al [8] on mechanical characteristics for

okra fibre, they took an impact on selecting of fibre content with okra fibre throughout the composite
material so as for composites to have the stresses mostly on fibre; they chose the use of polypropylene
with both the fibre content range from 25-65 percent such as the use of different tensile stresses to
study the behaviour of okra fibre composite These stresses are 0.65-5MPa, 0.65-1.2MPa, 0.65-
1.7MPa and 0.25-2.5MPa. To the best of our understanding, the mercerization process was not
altered. A methodical analysis was conducted to examine certain mechanical behaviour of composite
materials including such tensile, impact as well as bending characteristics. Ultimate tensile strength, a
measure of how much force can be applied without the wire bending, has been calculated at 38.5 MPa
as well as the ultimate tensile modulus, a measure of how much force can be applied and the strongest
measure of how much resistance there is to being bent, was noted at 675 MPa. The optimal impact
strength (IS) as well as hardness value is 22.87 Kilograms per meter squared and 97 (Shore-A) for
mercerized composite materials including 45 percent fibre. The interfacial nature was measured by
Microscope as well as Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and noticed that its interfacial cohesion
amongst matrix and fibre was strengthened owing to the treatment of fibres that validate the
mechanical properties of the composite materials.
Emad Omrani and his team [9] were able to study that a mixture of plant fibre reinforced composite
materials as well as artificial fibre reinforced composites are gaining notice and gain acceptance to be
used as an environmentally sustainable as well as an economical composite material. Many important
industries, including the vehicle, building and packing sectors, have been working so hard to get new
carbon fibre products into the market and are creating new ones. There are typical fibres that will
make up the composite content. Another significant consideration not many people have bothered to
remember is the fibre processing and fibre alignment, as these determine the tribological
characteristics of the fibre in which a highly ordered fibre allows for better wear and friction. This
study is an attempt to determine how machine loading as well as sliding speed affects tribological
properties and also the findings come from various testing, which included normal load along with the
sliding speed.
3.Methodology
This is because there exists a rising need to create novel bio-based composites in order to solve
sustainability problems, recycle materials, and also be environmentally friendly. The use of bio-
composites is becoming a better solution to the use of fiberglass reinforced composite materials
particularly in automobile components as well as construction material. From such an employment as
well as sustainable economy standpoint, agriculture and forestry that are built on bio-composites offer
an opportunity to enhance and build a more sustainable forest and agricultural economy.
Density - The cut a long-single fibre (LSF) into small pieces. Then, I put each piece onto a slide, and
projected the slide onto a screen this way through to the microscope. The width of the cloud was
evaluated and the results in millimeters. As an example, 100 fibres were tested to determine the
average diameter and 10 fibres were examined to calculate the minimum linear density. The mean of
the linear density as well as the diameter will be used to measure the volume density of the fibre
(Arbelaiz, 2005; International Standards Organization ASTM D1577-01; ASTM D2130-05).
Porosity - The outcome of this technique has been achieved by an image processing process. This
approach has many benefits. That was the procedure of measuring the pore space on a photo captured
out of each a microtome specimen, in monochrome comparison. For each image I showed, I split
them into 4 areas of the image. The staining technique creates a shot image of the cells with a
magnification of 40×. This machinery is shown in the figure below. To obtain one pictures of every
one of the zones mentioned above, a Pixelink camera was used to take pictures with a resolution of
2208 by 3000 pixels as well as an additional scale of 7.7 mm × 10.5 mm.
Young's Modulus - Find the data on the data table which includes the results for static Young's
modulus, as the normal distribution at 95 percent. As noticeable is the fact the subjective conclusions
drawn with using the resonance and Pundit techniques present higher variance than that of the results
provided in using the mixture process.
Here the 3 samples were weighed simultaneously to guarantee accuracy. After that has been finished,
the specimen was first kept in a Petri dish full of distilled water. 24 hours and 48 hours, the weights of
the specimen were taken, as well as the water absorption was calculated using Eq. (1).
Water absorption %, Wa= (W1 – W2)/W1 X 100 ……………………………………. (1)
Where, W1 is original weight of the sample and

W2 is final weight of the sample after 24, 48, and 120 hours.
4.Results and Discussions
In the following sections, findings are presented to density, porosity as well as Young's modulus
along with water absorption is addressed and discussed.
Density.
It was ascertained that the bulk density values were obtained through dividing, over each sample, the
specimen's weight, determined with a weighing-machine, by its known volume. By using a helium
pycnometer, they were able to calculate the density of the solution in Figure 1, as well as the used
powder samples, of about 2.5 cubic cm, were randomly extracted from the specimens. The porosity
of the experiment was measured, and it was determined by following
𝜇 −𝜋
𝑝= 𝜇
where p is the porosity, 𝜇 and p are correspondingly the specific and bulk densities.
Fig 1. Helium pycnometer for measuring the density
Specimen Collection:
Fibers extracted from either the flax plant include samples by 3 ways, from "ignition loss" tests or
"burn out" tests on flax fibres, from matrix degradation tests onto flax fibres, and in dried fabric form
acquired directly from the manufacturers. The specifics of the 1 type of fibre examined are listed in
Table 1. The ASTM Standard D2584, "Standard Test Methodology for Ignition Depletion of Treated
Reinforced Resins" [8], was reported on all flax fibres. In the situations where even the desirable fibre
was component of a laminate (multi-layered fibre), this method was able to isolate the preferred fibre
from the unnecessary matrix by destroying off the undesirable matrix as well as materials. Whenever
the glass fibre was made up of the fabric type, ASTM International eliminated the scaling from either
the fibres. Until enough energy is applied to carbon fibres (which are induced to burning when
exposure to potentially high temperatures) the carbon fibres combust as well as release flammable gas
from the material. Thus, in order to allow the removal of the fibre size, ASTM normal D3171
―Standard Test Methods for Fiber Content of Resin Matrix Composites‖ [2] was used rather than fibre
ignition approach to perform fiber-wise removal of the matrix substance as well as fibre
characterization.
Removal of Moisture
It is at this stage just after fibres have been stripped of its binding material as well as sizing that they
were then covered further moisture penetration. Anything reacts with water in the atmosphere,
whether it is a solid or liquid. The rate of water molecules absorbed by a material is dependent upon
the porosity of the material and also the region that is being hydrated. Water vapour also adds weight
in the gaseous state and produces a highly volatile gas phase which could skew results. To ensure
correct and precise densities, every attempt was made to eliminate water or even other volatile toxins
order to put the specimen as in Pycnometer. Also, the device was expunged prior to calibrating the
unit to remove any contaminating gas or vapor. In the past research, the Tested Carbon Fiber was
heated to 107 degrees C for an hour, during which the Tested Fabric was put in a desiccator. Below
point 5-6, as the storage temperature for the fiberglass specimens is 107 degree Celsius, the specimens
must be put into a desiccator overnight at the lowest temperature with ample humidity. The specimens
were left in the desiccator (go to 4) before they were independently extracted for weighed as well as
transported to just the pycnometer cell.
Sample Size:
It was advisable to use a specimen size that would reliably produce the measurement results. The
highest quantity of fibre that is a consistent sum was used in this analysis. Along with the issue of
using a hundred different units, we use more units than required because of accuracy. That is, we use
5g of 2.000  0.010 cc the accurate limit might be 0.0125 g/cc. It is fair to assume that, using the 3-
fold sphericity assumption, 50 grams of flax fibre delivers a volume of exactly 20  0.010 cc. As it
notes in the analysis, the maximum sampling frame practicable had been used to achieve accurate
results (e.g., 50 g of flax fibre).
Reinforcement Matrix Density(g/cm3 )
S.no
1. Flax (20%) Epoxy (80%) 1.452
2. Flax (30%) Epoxy (70%) 1.495
3. Flax (40%) Epoxy (60%) 1.512
4. Flax (50%) Epoxy (50%) 1.529
5. Flax (60%) Epoxy (40%) 1.535
Table 1. Density variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax + Epoxy)
S.no Reinforcement Matrix Density(g/cm3 )
1. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (80%) 1.421

(micro)(20%)
2. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (70%) 1.495

(micro)(30%)
3. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (60%) 1.561

(micro)(40%)
4. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (50%) 1.612

(micro)(50%)
5. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (40%) 1.694

(micro)(60%)
Table 2. Density variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax +TiO2(micro) + Epoxy)
1. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (80%) 1.691

(Nano)(20%)
2. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (70%) 1.71

(Nano)(30%)
3. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (60%) 1.741

(Nano)(40%)
4. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (50%) 1.752

(Nano)(50%)
5. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (40%) 1.756

(Nano)(60%)
Table 3. Density variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax +TiO2(nano) + Epoxy)
1. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (80%) 1.763

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(20%)
2. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (70%) 1.754

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(30%)
3. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (60%) 1.785

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(40%)
4. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (50%) 1.742

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(50%)
5. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (40%) 1.736

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(60%)
Table 4. Density variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax +TiO2(micro) +TiO2(nano) + Epoxy)
DENSITY(G/CM3 ) FLAX D E N S I T Y ( G / CM 3 ) F L A X + T I O 2
Density(g/cm3 )
(MICRO)
1.54 Density(g/cm3 )
1.52 1.75
1.7
DENSITY
1.5 1.65
DENSITY
1.6
1.48 1.55
1.46 1.5
1.45
1.44 1.4
0 50 100 150 200 0 50 100 150 200
LENGTH(MM) LENGTH(MM)
Graph1. Density variation w.r.t matrix reinforcementGraph 2. Density variation w.r.t matrix
(Flax + Epoxy)reinforcement(Flax +TiO2(micro) + Epoxy)
DENSITY(G/CM3 ) FLAX
DENSITY(G/CM3 ) FLAX +TIO2(MICRO)+TIO2(NANO)
+TIO2(MICRO)
Density(g/cm3 )
Density(g/cm3 )
1.79
1.76
1.78
1.74 1.77
DENSITY
DENSITY
1.72 1.76
1.75
1.7
1.74
1.68 1.73
0 50 100 150 200 0 50 100 150 200
Graph 3. Density variation w.r.t matrixreinforcementGraph 4. Density variation w.r.t matrixreinforcement
(Flax +TiO2(nano) + Epoxy)(Flax +TiO2(micro)+TiO2(nano) + Epoxy)
From the above results we can see that the density is highest for Flax + TiO2 (micro)+TiO2 (Nano)
(20%) and Epoxy (80%).
Specimen Preparation for Porosity
In order to measure the thermal conductivity as well as porosity of a module, specimens for
thermal conductivity as well as porosity experiments had been cut from its panels as shown in
Figure 3. For porosity evaluation, cubes of 1–2 cubic mm were obtained from every laboratory
module in the densities of 198 kg/m3, 415 kg/m3, 598 kg/m3, 810 kg/m3 as well as 987 kg/m3
along with fine, medium, coarse fibre dimensions (Figure 4a). 18 findings were made out of each
treatment’s methods (completely 15 treatments). The end of this investigation ended up giving us a
count of 270 cubes. The cubes have been allowed to be dried for 8 days in our lab under an
anhydrous dry package. Then, they have been infused with LR White intermediate value composite
resins, of model number 14381, by Electron Microscopy Sciences (Hatfield, PA, USA). (Figure 4c
on top of Figure 4b). This technique has been developed within that laboratory of our organization.
These dried acrylic cubes have been immersed into acrylic resin. After an hour had elapsed, the
resin has been purged. This medication became systematically applied 3 times. After being
immersed in the acrylic resin twice, the cubes were left immersed once again. The gelatin was
taken out and dried, and the resin was extracted and put into capsules, 2 ounces each. The basic
model of this weapon, made by Galenova Inc (St-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada), is 7 inches with resin
filler. To seal the capsules, the capsules were tightly sealed, and then put inside an oven. After that,
the oven was left, and the capsules were allowed to polymerize for one day. On the second day, the
capsules remained immersed in cold water for 10 minutes for gel softening. After applying the gel
on the resin capsule, the e-liquid was put back in the hardened capsule (Figure 4c). Afterwards, 3
thin slices of 3 µm worth in thickness was trimmed with such a microtome from every containing
cube. A maximum of 810 thinly sliced were collected for the purpose of calculation of the porosity.
The parts of the paraffin wax were stained with two solutions: methylene blue (MB), a great acidic
stain that is sodium hydroxide, and blue-M21, and water, which is only pure water. Then, each
section was placed on a slide to form a microtomic sample. After the researcher used the
microtoming device to get a 1.44 mm × 1.83 mm × 3 µm tip of the pin, the final dimension of each
pin was around 1.44 mm × 1.83 mm × 3 µm (Figure 4d).
Samples of 152.4 × 152.4 × 16 millimeters for thermal conductivity estimation have been
conditioned to 65 percent relative humidity as well as 21 ◦C temperature through 21 days. The
water holding capacity of these specimens was 7.6%, and the air-dry mass technique was used to
evaluate the air-dry mass (M = 0.3). Twenty-four measurements for each of the 15 treatments give
us 180 observations overall, which is deemed an optimal number for this form of experiment.
Figure 2. Setup used to measure porosity by image analysis:
S.no Reinforcement Matrix Porosity(%)
1. Flax (20%) Epoxy (80%) 5.24
2. Flax (30%) Epoxy (70%) 4.82
3. Flax (40%) Epoxy (60%) 4.31
4. Flax (50%) Epoxy (50%) 4.01
5. Flax (60%) Epoxy (40%) 3.97
Table 5. Porosity variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax + Epoxy)

(micro)(20%)

(micro)(30%)

(micro)(40%)

(micro)(50%)

(micro)(60%)
Table 6. Porosity variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax +TiO2(micro) + Epoxy)

(Nano)(20%)

(Nano)(30%)

(Nano)(40%)

(Nano)(50%)

(Nano)(60%)
Table 7. Porosity variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax +TiO2(nano) + Epoxy)
1. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (80%) 7.16

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(20%)
2. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (70%) 7.54

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(30%)
3. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (60%) 6.95

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(40%)
4. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (50%) 6.54

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(50%)
5. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (40%) 6.12

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(60%)
Table 8. Porosity variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax +TiO2(micro) +TiO2(nano) + Epoxy)
POROSITY(%) FLAX POROSITY(%) FLAX+MICRO(TIO2)

Porosity(%) Porosity(%)
6 7
5 6
4 5
POROSITY
POROSITY
4
3
3
2
2
1 1
0 0
0 50 100 150 200 0 50 100 150 200
Graph 5. Porosity variation w.r.t matrix reinforcementGraph 6. Porosity variation w.r.t matrix
(Flax + Epoxy)reinforcement(Flax +TiO2(micro) + Epoxy)
POROSITY(%) FLAX+TIO2(NANO) POROSITY(%)

F L A X + T I O 2 ( M I C R O ) + T I O 2( N A N O )
Porosity(%)
Porosity(%)
8
8
7
7
6
6
5
POROSITY
POROSITY
4 4
3 3
2 2
1 1
0 0
0 50 100 150 200 0 50 100 150 200
Graph 7. Porosity variation w.r.t matrixreinforcementGraph 8. Density variation w.r.t matrix
(Flax +TiO2(nano) + Epoxy)reinforcement(Flax +TiO2(micro)+TiO2(nano) + .

Epoxy)
From the above results we can see that porosity percentage is higher in Flax + TiO2 (micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(30%) and Epoxy (70%).
 Young’s Modulus
The significant impact on the overall static Young’s modulus, even as confidence interval
(CI) at 95 percent being described as well as plotted. As a broad generalization, the complex
findings obtained through using resonance approach demonstrate greater uncertainty than that
of the results provided by using Pundit approach. Nevertheless, its mean value through both
approaches is indeed very identical (as someone can verify by comparing). This should be
mentioned that perhaps the patterns are still quite consistent across both techniques. Even so,
its estimates with Resonance methodology are often smaller than someone from Pundit
approach. Although such 2 methods calculate the functional Young’s modulus, the
phenomenon appears related to every one remains distinct. Whereas the Pundit approach is
based mostly on transmission speed of either an ultrasonic wave within the same solid, the
Resonance approach is based mostly on vibration frequency of either a solid. Throughout the
equations used within the Resonance method, Poisson’s ratio would have to be conceded
however in this experiment a value of 0.2 has been chosen. Unless the real Poisson’s ratio is
subtly different, the outcomes would be impacted and that this makes a distinction in the
techniques.
Fig 3: Elastic modulus measurement
Fig 4: Specimens
S.no Reinforcement Matrix Young’s

Modulus(Mpa)
1. Flax (20%) Epoxy (80%) 5.34
2. Flax (30%) Epoxy (70%) 4.62
3. Flax (40%) Epoxy (60%) 4.21
4. Flax (50%) Epoxy (50%) 4.11
5. Flax (60%) Epoxy (40%) 3.84
Table 9. Young’s modulus variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement(Flax + Epoxy)

Modulus(Mpa)

(micro)(20%)

(micro)(30%)

(micro)(40%)

(micro)(50%)

(micro)(60%)
Table 10. Young’s modulus variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax +TiO2(micro) + Epoxy)

Modulus(Mpa)

(Nano)(20%)

(Nano)(30%)

(Nano)(40%)

(Nano)(50%)

(Nano)(60%)
Table 11. Young’s modulus variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement(Flax +TiO 2(nano) + Epoxy)

Modulus(Mpa)
1. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (80%) 7.57

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(20%)
2. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (70%) 7.19

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(30%)
3. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (60%) 6.84

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(40%)
4. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (50%) 6.61

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(50%)
5. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (40%) 6.41

(micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(60%)
Table 12. Young’s modulus variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax +TiO2(micro) +TiO2(nano) + Epoxy)
YOUNG’S MODULUS(MPA) FLAX YOUNG’S MODULUS(MPA)

FLAX+TIO2(MICRO)
Young’s Modulus(Mpa)
6
7
YOUNG'S MODULUS
YOUNG'S MODULUS
6
4 5
3 4
3
2
2
1 1
0 0
0 50 100 150 200 0 50 100 150 200
Graph 9. Young’s modulus variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement Graph 10. Young’s modulus variation w.r.t matrix
(Flax + Epoxy) reinforcement(Flax +TiO2(micro) + Epoxy)
YOUNG’S MODULUS(MPA) FLAX +TIO2(NANO) YOUNG’S MODULUS(MPA)

FLAX+TIO2(MICRO)+TIO2(NANO)
8
7.8
YOUNG'S MODULUS
7
YOUNG'S MODULUS
7.6
6 7.4
5 7.2
4 7
3 6.8
2 6.6
1 6.4
0 6.2
0 50 100 150 200 0 50 100 150 200
Graph 11. Young’s modulus variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement Graph 12. Young’s modulus variation w.r.t matrix
(Flax +TiO2(nano) + Epoxy) reinforcement (Flax + TiO2(micro) +TiO2(nano) + Epoxy)
From the above results we can see that young’s modulus for Flax + TiO2 (micro)+TiO2
(Nano)(20%)Epoxy (80%) is having highest values when compared to others.
 Young’s modulus for Flax + TiO2 (micro)+TiO2 (Nano)(20%) Epoxy (80%) is having
highest values when compared to others.
 Porosity percentage is higher in Flax + TiO2 (micro)+TiO2 (Nano)(30%) and Epoxy (70%).
 Density is highest for Flax + TiO2 (micro)+TiO2 (Nano)(20%) and Epoxy (80%).
Characteristic Density(g/cm3 ) Porosity(%) Young’s

Modulus(MPa)
Reinforcement
FLAX 1.504 4.473 4.424
FLAX + 1.556 6.112 5.622

TIO2(MICRO)
FLAX + 1.731 5.591 6.125

TIO2(NANO)
FLAX + 1.756 4.471 6.924

TIO2(MICRO) +
TIO2(NANO)
Table 13: comparing the values of density, porosity and modulus w.r.t.different reinforcement
Density(g/cm3 ) Porosity(%) Young’s Modulus(Mpa)
6.924
6.112
6.12
5.622
5.59
4.424
4.47
4.47
1.756
1.5566
1.5046
1.73
FLAX FLAX + TIO2(MICRO) FLAX + TIO2(NANO) FLAX + TIO2(MICRO)

+ TIO2(NANO)
Graph 13: Comparing the derived physical properties for different matrix
 At the beginning of the last century, we started to see a growing interest throughout the
production including the use of environmentally sustainable natural plant fibre composites.
Due to great unique properties, multiscale structure, impact on environment, relatively low
cost, as well as wide availability, this find is highly promising.
 Recent times, Natural Polymer Matrix Composites begin evolving as competitive alternatives
to conventional materials in either a broad variety of fields, including such automotive,
building, maritime, as well as aerospace industries
 In addition to lightening the component, certain thinner fiber-reinforced composites (FRCCs)
can produce other problems when used in construction. Advantageous properties when
working with composite materials include the ability to strengthen as well as stiffen
components while reducing weight, its ability to act as fire-resistant materials as well as create
shock absorbent properties, and the ability to create high-value products due to their fiber-
reinforcement. However, the manufacturing processes, climate, as well as design challenges
remain different.
5.Conclusions
 Therefore, several studies have focused mostly on electrochemically active surface

modification of raw fibres, the structural processing of natural fibres, and also the formulation
of the polymer active layer on the surface of the fiber to enhance their physical, thermal, as
well as physical properties, and also certain interfacial properties.
 In order to design appropriate bio composites, a proper surface processing or alteration of
natural fibres is a requirement.
 Finally, bio - based nanoparticle fibres are remarkable in the high surface to volume ratio,
extraordinary power, renewability, as well as good biocompatibility that further makes
themselves outstanding for reinforcing nanostructures.
 Electrostatic interaction of reinforcement particle is broad to something like a significant
extent owing to small size of grains and therefore will, to something like a significant extent,
communicate with polymer, therefore enhancing efficacy including its reinforcement.
6.References
[1] Peijs T. Composites turn green! e-Polymers, No. T_002, 2002. Available from: http://www.e-
polymers.org/papers/peijs_110202.pdf.
[2] Rowell RM, Sanadi AR, Caulfield DF, Jacobson RE. Utilization of natural fibres in plastic
composites: problems and opportunities, lignocellulosic–plastics composites. Forest Products Lab
1997:1–51.
[3] Selke SE, Wichman I. Wood fibre/polyolefin composites. Comp Part A: Appl Sci
Manuf2004;35:321–6.
[4] Forest Products Laboratory. Wood handbook—Wood as an engineering material. Gen. Tech. Rep.
FPL-GTR-113. Madison, WI: US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Forest Products
Laboratory 1999. Available from: http://www.fpl.fs.fed.us/documnts/ FPLGTR/fplgtr113/Ch04.pdf.
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flour/glass fibre hybrid composite. J Vinyl Additive Technol 2003;9(3):138–45.
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[10] Jones RM. Mechanics of composite material. United States: Hemisphere Publishing
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Annals of R.S.C.B., ISSN:1583-6258, Vol. 25, Issue 4, 2021, Pages.

Physical Properties and Behavior of Flax Fiber Reinforced Epoxy

J.Sureshbabu1, Dr.S.Chakradhara Goud2 Dr.V.S.S.Murthy3

1Ph.D.Research Scholar, Department of mechanical engineering, Shri

Keywords: Naturalfiber, Epofline556,TIO2,EpoxyResin,Mechanical Properties.

Natural fiber, Epofline556, TiO2,Epoxy Resin, Mechanical characteristics.

In an experiment performed by A. N. M. Masudur Rahmaneet.al [8] on mechanical characteristics for

Water absorption %, Wa= (W1 – W2)/W1 X 100 ……………………………………. (1)

Where, W1 is original weight of the sample and

4.Results and Discussions

Fig 1. Helium pycnometer for measuring the density

Reinforcement Matrix Density(g/cm3 )

1. Flax (20%) Epoxy (80%) 1.452

2. Flax (30%) Epoxy (70%) 1.495

3. Flax (40%) Epoxy (60%) 1.512

4. Flax (50%) Epoxy (50%) 1.529

5. Flax (60%) Epoxy (40%) 1.535

Table 1. Density variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax + Epoxy)

S.no Reinforcement Matrix Density(g/cm3 )

1. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (80%) 1.421

2. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (70%) 1.495

3. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (60%) 1.561

4. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (50%) 1.612

5. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (40%) 1.694

Table 2. Density variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax +TiO2(micro) + Epoxy)

S.no Reinforcement Matrix Density(g/cm3 )

1. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (80%) 1.691

2. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (70%) 1.71

3. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (60%) 1.741

4. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (50%) 1.752

5. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (40%) 1.756

Table 3. Density variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax +TiO2(nano) + Epoxy)

S.no Reinforcement Matrix Density(g/cm3 )

1. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (80%) 1.763

2. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (70%) 1.754

3. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (60%) 1.785

4. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (50%) 1.742

5. Flax + TiO2 Epoxy (40%) 1.736

(Flax + Epoxy)reinforcement(Flax +TiO2(micro) + Epoxy)

Graph 3. Density variation w.r.t matrixreinforcementGraph 4. Density variation w.r.t matrixreinforcement

(Flax +TiO2(nano) + Epoxy)(Flax +TiO2(micro)+TiO2(nano) + Epoxy)

Specimen Preparation for Porosity

Figure 2. Setup used to measure porosity by image analysis:

S.no Reinforcement Matrix Porosity(%)

1. Flax (20%) Epoxy (80%) 5.24

2. Flax (30%) Epoxy (70%) 4.82

3. Flax (40%) Epoxy (60%) 4.31

4. Flax (50%) Epoxy (50%) 4.01

5. Flax (60%) Epoxy (40%) 3.97

Table 5. Porosity variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax + Epoxy)

S.no Reinforcement Matrix Porosity(%)

1. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (80%) 6.18

2. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (70%) 5.94

3. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (60%) 5.72

4. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (50%) 5.13

5. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (40%) 4.98

Table 6. Porosity variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax +TiO2(micro) + Epoxy)

S.no Reinforcement Matrix Porosity(%)

1. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (80%) 6.94

2. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (70%) 6.54

3. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (60%) 6.18

4. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (50%) 5.94

5. Flax +TiO2 Epoxy (40%) 4.96

Table 7. Porosity variation w.r.t matrix reinforcement (Flax +TiO2(nano) + Epoxy)