Tribological and mechanical properties investigations on polymer based composites reinforced with bio fillers

Abstract

Bio-composites are currently considered a viable alternative to conventional, nonbiodegradable polymers. Further increasing, the use of natural fillers helps keep the price of bio-composites down. Polylactic acid (PLA) served as the matrix in this study, and Rice Husk Fibre (RH) and Walnut Shell Fibre (WS) were used as filler materials. Rice Husk Ash (RHA) at 0%, 2%, 4%, 8%, and 10% and Walnut Ash (WNA) at 2% are combined in the PLA matrix. The aim of this analysis was to investigate the impact of varying quantities of a silane-alkali processed rice husk fibre and walnut shell fibre (hybrid fibre) in a PLA-based composite with respect to mechanical, thermal, and tribological properties. Tensile, flexural, impact toughness then Shore D Hardness of approximately 192 MPa, 224 MPa, 6.91 J and 96 were achieved in composites containing alkali-silane-treated rice husk fibre at 10 wt% and walnut shell fibre at 2 wt%, correspondingly. The addition of 2 wt% WS fibre particle reduces the bio-specific composite's specific wear rate (SWR) to around 0.009 mm3/Nm and its coefficient of friction (COF) to about 0.42, respectively. In addition, by including particles made from 6 wt% Rice husk fibre and 2 wt% walnut shell fibre, the composites show promising thermal capabilities, with a Tg of 103◦C. These PLA bio-composites prove the use in aerospace, defence, sports, domestic infrastructure, automobiles, and industrial applications due to their improved mechanical, thermal, and wear characteristics.