Nano clay treated jute fiber reinforced epoxy composites: Thermo‐kinetic, morphological and mechanical analysis

Abstract

AbstractCurrent scientific research prioritizes sustainable and cost‐effective materials due to the depletion of traditional non‐renewable sources. Natural fiber reinforced composite materials emerge as promising solutions. However natural fibers being hydrophilic in nature are less compatible with hydrophobic epoxy matrix, to address this issue nano clay treatment of jute fibers have been done and epoxy composites were formed with their reinforcement. Through FT‐IR, thermal, mechanical, and morphological analyses, both treated and untreated composites are evaluated. The treated composites exhibit a notable 19% increase in activation energy (FWO and KAS methods) compared to untreated ones (217.5–259 KJ/mol), indicating improved thermal stability. Moreover, the treated composite demonstrates a significant 38% boost in tensile strength (30–41.4 MPa) and a 28% enhancement in flexural strength (50–64 MPa), highlighting the impact of alkali‐nano clay treatment in reinforcing structural integrity. These enhancements suggest the potential applicability of composites manufactured with alkali‐nano clay treated jute fibers (A/NC/J fiber) across various industries. This innovative approach not only bridges the gap in sustainable material development but also offers cost‐effective solutions for commercial utilization.Highlights Analyzed alkali‐nano clay treatment effects on jute fiber in epoxy composites. Studied activation energy (FWO, KAS) for untreated and treated composites. Treated composites show a 19% increase in activation energy: Thermal stability Significant improvements: 38% rise in tensile, 28% increase in flexural strength.