Effect of walnut powder reinforcement on the mechanical properties of biodegradable natural flax/hemp fibre-based composites

Abstract

Biomaterials created from raw materials are gaining appeal in the industrial sector due to their high quality, sustainability, and environmental considerations. Combining two types of fibres may enhance the fundamental properties of organic fibre-reinforced hybrid polymeric materials. Natural fibre-reinforced hybrid composites were created using a compression moulding process, using coir fibre, hemp fibre, polypropylene, and montmorillonite Walnut Powders used in this work. The effects of a fibre blend and vermiculite on mechanical performances and biodegradable characteristics were studied. Both the coir and hemp fibres were alkali-treated to diminish their hydrophilic character before the process. The mechanical attributes of the produced lightweight materials were evaluated by UTM equipment, resulting in improvements following the mixing of fibre and particle inclusion. The composite's good biocompatibility and water absorption capabilities were increased by mixing fibres, but particle additions seemed to have the opposite impact.