The effect of porcelain filler particulates madar fiber reinforced epoxy composite – A comprehensive study for biomedical applications

Abstract

Environmental consciousness motivates scientists to devise an alternative method for producing natural fiber composite materials in order to decrease the demand for synthetic fibers. This study explores the potential of a novel composite material derived from madar fiber-reinforced epoxy with porcelain filler particulates, designed specifically for biomedical instrumentation applications. The primary focus is to assess the material's structural, mechanical, and antibacterial properties. X-ray Diffraction analysis was employed to discern the crystalline nature of the composite, revealing enhanced crystallinity due to the inclusion of porcelain particulates. Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy confirmed the chemical interactions and bonding mechanisms between madar fiber, epoxy matrix, and porcelain filler. Mechanically, the composite exhibited superior properties when addition of porcelain fillers, maximum results obtain in tensile strength of 51.28 MPa, flexural strength of 54.21 MPa, and impact strength of 0.0155 kJ/m2, making it ideal for robust biomedical applications. Scanning Electron Microscopy provided detailed insights into the morphology and distribution of the reinforcing agents within the epoxy matrix, emphasizing the fibrillated structure of madar fiber and the uniform dispersion of porcelain particulates. Importantly, antibacterial assays demonstrated the composite's potential resistance against common pathogenic bacteria, which is crucial for biomedical instrumentation. Collectively, this research underscores the promising attributes of the madar fiber reinforced epoxy composite with porcelain particulates, suggesting its suitability for advanced biomedical applications.