ASTM Standards Research Articles

Development of Free Fatty Acid (FFA) monitoring device for evaluation of oil samples used for biodiesel production

Diversion of oil sources for biodiesel production has been gaining importance to meet the environmental concerns and energy demand. The free fatty acid (FFA) content of the feedstock is a significant factor in biodiesel production. The FFA values determine the complexity of the biodiesel production. Until date, an experimental procedure has been used to determine the FFA concentration of an oil source; this method is dependent on titration, which is a laborious process involving significant volumes of chemicals. Hence, in the present study, an attempt was made to develop a device for the identification of FFA of the oils. Waste cooking oil samples subjected to wide range of cooking conditions like cooking time, temperature, type of food are collected from different food outlets. Subsequently, the composition of oil samples and the variation in their quality were analysed using gas chromatography flame ionization detector (GC – FID). Biodiesel is prepared from the oil samples through transesterification and the impact of FFA and their respective methyl esters in the quality and properties have been investigated. The properties of biodiesel were determined as per ASTM standards. The study was further extended to correlate the properties of biodiesel with the composition of the oil from which it was derived. The analysis evidently proved the dependence of biodiesel properties on the FFA percentage and the composition of the oil. The results have been further substantiated with the performance and emission characteristics of internal combustion engine fuelled with the prepared biodiesel samples.

A Socio-Cultural Analysis of Users’ Intentions to Use Facemask in the Post Covid-19 Era in Nigeria

This paper investigates individuals’ intention to use facemasks in the post-COVID-19 era using the extended unified theory of acceptance and use of technology. During the COVID-19 pandemic, enforcement, rather than individual choice, drove facemask usage. In the post-COVID-19 era, the effects of facilitating condition, social influence, price value, performance expectancy, effort expectancy, hedonic motivation, experience and habit on the intention to use the facemask were investigated using the regressions analyses. A total of 417 respondents took part in the selection from government organisations, including higher institutions and public offices in South-West Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja). The result shows that facilitating conditions and hedonic motivation positively influenced the intention to use the facemask, while price value, experience and habit have negative impacts. Findings from this study suggest that facemask manufacturers and distributors must suitably design their products to suit the value perception of the user and beliefs that trigger social status and hedonic motivations in conjunction with the primary health benefits of the facemasks. It is recommended that further improvement of the facemask technology, such that it can convert traditional facemasks into smart technology with increasing emphasis on fashion and style, while adhering to safety measures be promoted by policymakers and manufacturers. While facemask manufacturers must see that the quality of their products meets up to ASTM (or relevant) standards, for which user-friendly, durable, microbe-resistant, yet biodegradable materials have been used, policymakers must organise regular sensitization programs on the importance of mask usage, and as well promote continuous development of improved technologies for nosemask designs.

Enhancing wear resistance, mechanical properties of composite materials through sisal and glass fiber reinforcement with epoxy resin and graphite filler

This study investigates the mechanical and wears properties of sisal and glass fiber-reinforced epoxy composites with graphite as filler material. We assessed the mechanical properties of the hand-layup-fabricated composite materials, including hardness, tensile strength, flexural strength, and impact strength, by ASTM standards. We also performed wear evaluations using a pin-on-disc apparatus. The results showed that the weight fractions of sisal fiber, glass fiber, graphite, and epoxy resin significantly affected the mechanical properties of the composites. In contrast to composites reinforced with individual fibers, hybrid composites exhibited enhanced mechanical properties. The optimized compositions showed improvements in tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness properties. The wear analysis revealed that a variety of factors, including the weight percentage of reinforcement, sliding velocity, load, and sliding distance, had an impact on the composites' wear resistance. The SEM images provided significant insights into the composite material's micro structural characteristics and failure mechanisms. In general, this research showcases the potential of graphite filler-reinforced sisal and glass fiber epoxy composites for use in applications that demand exceptional abrasion resistance and mechanical strength. Further refinement of the composition and processing methodologies could lead to the development of composites tailored to specific application demands.

Optimization of Lamps Configuration for a Large-scale Indoor Solar Simulator for PV Panels and Solar Collectors

The current study presents investigations of a solar simulator design, development, and performance characterization for the application of photovoltaic (PV), thermal collector, and photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) indoor experiments. The study highlights the research outcomes of the lamp configurations and numbers in the simulator to achieve an acceptable radiation distribution in the targeted area as per the ASTM standards. Tungsten Halogen lamps were used to mimic solar radiation due to their proximity to the solar spectrum of the visible and infrared band and relatively low cost. The results indicate that a solar simulator of Class-C for spatial uniformity and Class-A for temporal uniformity can be achieved with the application of Tungsten Halogen lamps if arranged properly and a range of radiation flux can be obtained to replicate the variation of solar flux during the daytime. It was observed that three to six lamps of 1kW arranged in specific configurations can provide solar radiation varying from 378 to 969 W/m2 mimicking the daytime solar flux variation on an experimental area of 1200 × 520 mm2.

Synthesis of bio-based nanolubricant using bimetallic nanoparticles to mitigate the surface deterioration of low carbon steel for metalforming industry

Worldwide industries are drawing their attention to the usage of bio-based substances for their operational purposes. Herein, the bimetallic nanoparticles (Bi-MNPs) were synthesised using a unique combination of Zn–Cr in bio-based mustard oil by green route utilizing wet chemical approach. Synthesised Bi-MNPs (0.12–0.15 wt%) were employed in the synthesis of bimetallic bio-based nanolubricant (Bi-BNL), and the impact was also evaluated on low carbon steel (grade SAE1006). The reduction of Bi-MNPs was carried out by green reducing agents and their stabilisation was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Whereas, the synthesis of Bi-MNPs was followed by Surface plasma resonance (SPR), average size of Bi-MNPs which was about 60 nm and morphology was established using Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The efficiency of Bi-BNL and impact of Bi-MNPs on the stability of Bi-BNL was investigated by Dynamic light scattering (DLS), Zeta potential (ZP) and comparative study was carried out with reference lubricant. Interestingly, the kinematic viscosity (KV) values of the lubricants are quite compatible, and have linear relationsip with coefficient of friction which is very suitable to conclude the anti-friction and anti-wearing properties. The KV of bio-based oil was monitored under the criteria of standard test method ASTM D445, and the resultant value was compared with the reference oil. The stability of Bi-BNL and its interaction with low carbon metal sheet was also studied; the outcomes were very impressive due to no rust patches, oil spots and surface deterioration on the metal sheet. The paramount creativity of this research work is the modification of bio-based oil via Bi-MNPs for the synthesis of Bi-BNL that offers the best surface quality of low-carbon steel. Cumulatively, these findings of Bi-BNL could be open up new possibilities to explore the bio-based synthesis of lubricants on a comprehensive scale.

Gradient-induced vibrations and motion-induced Lenz effects on conductive nonmagnetic orthopedic implants in MRI.

To quantify the extent of gradient-induced vibrations, and the magnitude of motion-induced displacement forces ("Lenz effect"), in conductive nonmagnetic orthopedic prostheses. The investigation is carried out through numerical simulations, for a 3 T scanner. For gradient-induced torques and vibrations, a knee and a shoulder implant are considered, at dB/dt equal to 42 T/s (rms). For motion-induced forces associated with the Lenz effect, a knee and a hip implant are studied, considering a patient who translates on the examination couch, or walks next to it. Gradient-induced torques may be within the same order of magnitude as the worst case gravitational torque defined in the ASTM standards. However, for all investigated cases, they result to be lower. In vacuum, the extent of the corresponding vibration reduces with frequency. At the lowest investigated frequency (270 Hz), it keeps below 25 μm. For an implant partially embedded in bone, the extent of the vibration increases with frequency. Nevertheless, the displacement is far lower than the worst case observed in vacuum (negligible in contact with the bone; ˜1 μm or less where the implant emerges from the bone). The Lenz effect induced by the motion of the patient through the stationary magnetic field produces forces on the order of a few millinewtons (i.e., at least two orders of magnitude lower than the implant weight). Comparing the results with mechanical loads caused by ordinary activities of daily living, and with the levels of tolerable micromotions, a good safety margin is confirmed.

Study of molecular arrangement and density estimation of soybean oil biodiesel-diesel blends employing molecular dynamic simulation

Blends of diesel–biodiesel are a crucial alternative for petrodiesel substitution. However, biodiesel faces challenges such as high density and kinematic viscosity, which can affect the properties and performance of the blends. Based on this, the investigation of the impact of adding biodiesel into diesel fuel at percentages of 12%, 15%, 18%, and 21% using molecular dynamic simulations is presented. The density of the blends was experimentally measured and calculated with good agreement, which indicates a favorable description of the interactions by the OPLS-AA force field. Obtained results suggest that alkanes and isoalkanes showed higher fluctuations and were most sensitive to the variation of the percentage of biodiesel in diesel. The other classes of molecules did not show significant variations in interactions, suggesting that π-π interactions are unaffected by the biodiesel addition. The spatial distribution functions revealed that diesel molecules are organized homogeneously around methyl oleate and methyl linoleate, whereas aliphatic hydrocarbon and aromatic molecules are in distinct regions. The diffusion coefficients (Di) showed that the diesel molecules possess higher values, and the biodiesel addition increases the Di of the blend due to the methyl esters carbon chains, which present lower diffusion than diesel molecules. Finally, physical parameters and simulations revealed that the biodiesel addition into diesel fuel in the proportion up to 21% did not negatively impact the density and viscosity limits established by standards ASTM, EN, and ANP Resolution.

Development of fishbone powder and carbon-jute fiber reinforced unsaturated polyester based novel green composites: investigation of tensile, impact strength, and morphology microstructure

In the last decade, hybrid composites have been the subject of significant advancements and study. This fast expansion necessitated the development of lightweight composite material with enhanced mechanical strength. In the past few years, the utilization of organic wastes from the food industry, like powder from cow bone, pig bone, and fishbone, has substantially improved the mechanical characteristics of composite materials. Owing to the increasing growth of the meat-based fisheries industry, fish bones are readily available. These bones are often thrown, causing environmental damage. Hence, a sustainable and unique hybrid composite was created employing fish bone powder (FBP) as filler in carbon/jute fibers reinforced polyester matrix. The hybrid composite was compression-molded. FTIR, SEM, and EDS studies were used to characterize the composite. The ASTM standard was used as a reference to explore the mechanical strength (tensile and impact). Additionally explored are the effects of alkali treatment of jute fiber on the above-mentioned processes. It was revealed that the inclusion of FBP and alkali treatment enhanced the mechanical characteristics of the composite. Fishbone powder with a particle size range of 200–250 μm and a weight percentage of 10 to 15% had significant fiber attachment which resulted in improved strength. The produced green composites have proven to be a viable choice for bio-waste treatment in the food sector.

Petrography and geomechanical properties of some mine waste rocks from the Tarkwaian Group in Ghana: implications for their use as aggregates in general engineering works

This research investigated some mine waste rocks from the southwestern part of the Tarkwaian Group in Ghana to check their suitability for general engineering works using petrography and geomechanical characteristics of the rocks. The rocks were subjected to a total of ten (10) tests, including Aggregate impact value (AIV), Aggregate crushing value (ACV), Loss Angeles abrasion (LAA), Specific gravity (SG), and Water absorption (WA), as well as flakiness and elongation index, slake durability (SD), chloride test (CT), sulphate test (ST), and ten percent fines (TPF). The tests were carried out per the American Society for Testing and Materials guidelines (ASTM). The following average test results were obtained: AIV (7.12%), ACV (15.60%), LAA (23.16%), TPF (269.7 kN), sulphate (0.0215%), chloride (0.00123%), flakiness (39.5%) and elongation (39.4%). The mine waste rocks are dominated by quartz and sericite, according to the petrographic examination and thus, can be classified as quartzites. Except for the flakiness and elongation index tests, all the results were consistent with the ASTM standards. The analysis carried out on the selected mine waste rocks from the southwestern part of the Tarkwaian Group could be catastrophic for heavy engineering works such as roads, bridges, and heavy buildings but can be used for pavements, lightweight buildings, monuments, and decoratives due to the percentage of quartz present to compensate for the weakness posed by the sericite.

Comparative study on lubrication properties of biodiesel and bio-lubricant trans-esterified from desert seed oil with conventional lubricants

In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on renewable and biodegradable energy sources among lubricant manufacturers due to the environmental impacts and limited availability of fossil-based engine oils. Biomass sources present a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional mineral oil sources. This study aims to produce and characterize biodiesel and biolubricant from desert date seed oil through transesterification. The result of the study was compared with the properties of conventional and commercial lubricants. The study employed transesterification to convert desert date seed oil into biodiesel and biolubricant. The produced biolubricant and biodiesel were characterized to determine their kinematic viscosity at 40°C, specific gravity, flash point, and pour point. These properties were then compared with those of other bio-lubricants and commercial base lubricants. For biodiesel, the yield was 56%, with a favorable acid value (0.98 mg KOH/g), iodine value (43.41 mg/g), and saponification value (197.4 mg KOH/g). Although, the specific gravity (1.876) was higher than ASTM standard. However, the flash point (112°C) and cloud point (11°C) were within acceptable ranges. The biolubricant produced from desert date oil showed promising results with a high kinematic viscosity of 67.54 mm2/s, a specific gravity of 1.876, a flash point of 120°C and a pour point (−5°C). These results obviously suggest the produced lubricant a suitable for automotive applications possessing good low-temperature performance. The flash point result and the physicochemical properties of the oil aligned well with industrial standards. The comparisons revealed that the produced biolubricant closely matched the properties of SAE VG 220 and SAE VG 40. The findings suggest that the biolubricant and biodiesel derived from desert date seed oil can serve as a viable substitute for petroleum-based lubricants in light gear applications and can be effectively used in two-stroke engines, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional lubricants.

Improving sustainability of precast concrete sandwich wall panels through stone waste aggregates and supplementary

Precast concrete sandwich wall panels offer advantages such as design flexibility, ease of installation, cost-effectiveness, and energy efficiency due to the incorporated insulation layer, but regular concrete production has sustainability issues. This study aims to improve the sustainability of these panels by utilizing stone waste aggregates as a replacement for natural aggregates and supplementary cementitious materials as a partial replacement for cement. The panels were made with two concrete wythes reinforced with steel fibers and joined using basalt fiber-reinforced polymer (BFRP) connectors, with high-density expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation (30 kg/m3) in between. Self-compacting concrete mixes with varying proportions of stone waste aggregates and supplementary cementitious materials were used. Full-scale wall panels were cast and subjected to flexural tests per ASTM standards, analyzing load-displacement curves, ultimate bearing capacity, and failure modes. The incorporation of steel fibers and stone waste aggregates resulted in substantial increases in failure load and flexural strength compared to controlled concrete panels, with the stone waste steel fiber panels exhibiting significantly higher maximum cracking loads and improved energy absorption and ductility. The inclusion of these sustainable materials, along with basalt fiber connectors and grooves in the EPS layer for mechanical interlock, prevented brittle failure modes and enhanced the composite action, leading to more ductile behavior under flexural loading. Utilizing sustainable materials like stone waste aggregates (100% replacement) and supplementary cementitious materials (30% replacement) in these panels can contribute to eco-friendly and efficient construction practices while maintaining adequate structural performance, paving the way for more sustainable building systems

Studies on parametric optimization of PLA/graphene composites synthesized by fused filament fabrication for thermal applications

The objective of this study is to examine the impact of various material and processing factors on the hardness (Shore D) and tensile strength of PLA/graphene composites. The study employed the Taguchi method to systematically optimize and statistically analyze various process variables, including the content of graphene (0 %, 0.5 %, and 1.0 % by weight), infill density (80 %, 90 %, and 100 %), and print speed (160 mm/s, 170 mm/s, and 180 mm/s). The composite material was fabricated utilizing the fused filament fabrication (FFF) technique, employing polylactic acid (PLA) and graphene as the primary feedstock materials. A standardized experiment was conducted in accordance with ASTM standards to assess the hardness and strength of samples that were prepared based on the experimental design. Based on the S/N ratio response table, it can be concluded that the reinforcement content is the most significant factor affecting both hardness and tensile strength. The optimal combination of process variables for achieving high hardness and tensile strength was found to be a graphene content of 1 %, an infill density of 100 %, and a print speed of 180 mm/s. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated that the variable with the greatest statistical significance and substantial impact on the properties is the content of reinforcement. The analysis of fractures indicated a transition from ductile to brittle behavior with an increase in infill density. Furthermore, both composites demonstrated a brittle mode of failure irrespective of the infill density. Thus this composite material synergistically combines the inherent biodegradability of PLA with the improved thermal conductivity of graphene.

Investigation on mechanical properties and wear behavior of basalt fiber and SiO2 nanofillers reinforced composites

This study explored the fabrication and evaluation of basalt fiber-reinforced composites containing silicon dioxide (SiO2) nanofillers. Hand layup followed by vacuum bagging was used to create composite specimens with mold dimensions of 300 × 300 × 3 mm³. The mechanical properties, hardness, and wear resistance of the fabricated composites were assessed according to ASTM standards. SiO2 nanofillers significantly improved the flexural properties of the composites, with a remarkable increase of 178 % and 26 % in flexural strength and modulus, respectively. Additionally, the tensile strength and modulus of the composites were also enhanced. The hardness reached a maximum of 86 at 6 wt % SiO2, and the wear resistance improved owing to the better interfacial bonding and reduced wear debris size. Wear tests revealed that SiO2 nanofillers reduced the wear rate and weight loss, which was attributed to improved interfacial bonding and reduced wear debris size. The FESEM analysis provided insights into the fracture mechanisms, showing enhanced energy dissipation and controlled crack propagation. The study concluded that SiO2 nanofillers enhance the mechanical properties and durability of fabricated composite laminates.

Impact of waste rockwool on the performance of LC3-based lightweight mortar: A promising solution for greener construction

The objective of this study is to explore the influence of waste rockwool (RW) on the mechanical strength and fire resistance performance of high-volume expanded vermiculite (EVM) lightweight mortar made with limestone-calcined clay cement (LC3). LC3 binder was prepared by blending ordinary Portland cement (OPC), metakaolin (MK), and limestone (LS) powder at weight percentages of 40, 40, and 20 wt%, respectively. LC3-based lightweight mortar with a binder-to-aggregate ratio of 1:3 was prepared by replacing 50 vol% of the sand with EVM aggregate. The waste RW was added to the EVM-blended LC3 mortar with different percentages of 1, 3, and 5 % by weight of binder. The compressive strength, flexural strength, drying shrinkage, bulk density, thermal conductivity, fire resistance, and microstructural properties of the hardened LC3-lightweight mortars were determined in accordance with ASTM standards after 28 days of water curing. The results revealed remarkable enhancements in both mechanical and fire resistance performances with RW addition. The addition of 3 wt% RW into the EVM-blended LC3 mortar provided the appropriate enhancement ratios of 56.55 % and 52.83 % in compressive and flexural strengths respectively and increased the fire resistance rating by 25 %. A residual compressive strength of 76.19 % has been maintained after exposure to standard fire for an hour (1 h). The doping of RW into the EVM-blended LC3 mortars led to significant reduction in drying shrinkage rate. A slight, insignificant variation in the thermal conductivity of EVM-blended LC3 lightweight mortar incorporated with RW has been obtained. RW addition resulted in improved microstructure in terms of compactness.

Production of Bio-Diesel from Dairy Waste Scum

Abstract-Dairy factory waste scums are increasingly being considered a valuable resource. However, these wastes may also contain contaminants, natural or artificial, that may adversely affect the land or water to which they are discharged. The study investigates the potential of using dairy waste scum as a feed stock for bio-diesel production. Present study optimized the parameters involved in the alkali catalysed Trans esterification process of dairy waste scum oil. The effects of methanol to oil ratio, temperature and amount of KOH were investigated. A study was conducted to evaluate the capability of production of biodiesel from consortium of native microalgae culture in dairy farm treated waste water. Native algal strains were isolated from dairy farm waste waters collection tank (untreated wastewater) as well as from holding tank (treated wastewater). The consortium members were selected on the basis of fluorescence response after treating with Nile red reagent. Preliminary studies of two commercial and consortium often native strains of algae showed good growth in waste waters. A consortium of native strains was found capable to remove more than 98% nutrients from treated waste water. The biomass production and lipid content of consortium cultivated in treated waste water were 153.54t ha-1 year-1 and 16.89%, respectively. 72.70% of algal lipid obtained from consortium could be converted into biodiesel. The present study found that bio- diesel from dairy waste scum is quite suitable as an alternative to petroleum diesel with recommended fuel properties as per ASTM standards. By using dairy waste scum as a feed stock for bio diesel and the environmental impact related to the disposal of dairy scum Keywords: Environment,Bio-Diesel,Dairy Waste Scum, Extraction of Lipids

Effect of aluminium nitride (AlN) particles addition on mechanical and tribological properties of aluminium matrix composites

Aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) are the most popular materials for use in a variety of industries, including the aerospace, automotive, and military sectors due to its advantageous features. In this study, the influence of AlN particles insertion on the morphology and mechanical properties were reported.Stir casting method was engaged to manufacture the AA2017 based composites reinforced with x wt.% of AlN particles (x = 0, 5, 10 and 15 wt%).The developed composites were undergone to conduct the tensile test, compression test, and hardness test as per ASTM standard. Microstructure of the proposed composites clearlyexposedthe homogeneous circulation of AlN particles and also no agglomeration formed within the matrix. The results showed the tensile strength (TS) compressive strength (CS)and hardness have drastically improved with insertion of AlN content in the base matrix. As a result, the better properties can be achieved in 15 wt% of AlN particles reinforced AA2017 matrix composite.

Investigation on the mechanical properties of wood-plastic composites for the application of ceiling panels

Wood-plastic composites are relatively novel composite materials that consist of a blend of wood flour waste with high-density polyethylene and polypropylene plastic waste, designed for use in ceiling applications. Various samples were produced using different ratios from the total weight, including 20:80, 30:70, and 40:60, with sieve sizes of 0.425 mm, 1.18 mm, and 2 mm. The composites were created by melting plastics and sawdust at a temperature of 1800c utilizing the hot-press moldings technique employing diverse formulations. The properties of sample composites were analyzed experimentally based on ASTM standards to investigate water absorption levels as well as flexural strength, impact resistance hardness along with surface morphology via the design of experiments. This research study indicates that nine composite formulations consisting of HDPE and PP plastics combined with wood flour can produce favorable physio-mechanical properties. Among these various combination specimens tested in this study FS3/FC30N exhibited excellent physio-mechanical properties; including desirable values such as water absorption level at 5.5103%, flexural strength at 61.12 Mpa, impact resistance measuring 33.45 J cm−2, and hardness rating up to 80 RHB. Thus it is highly recommended for use in chipboard ceiling panel applications due to its potential benefits.

ASTM International Subcommittee E07.02 on Reference Radiological Images: A brief history and update of recent work

Radiographic interpretation is a combination of art and science. The radiograph interpreter must be well versed in x-ray physics, conditions of the exposure, characteristics of the source and image detector, the design of the part, its specifications, and potential flaws. But there is also an art to interpretation that is gained over years of looking at many radiographs taken in many different conditions. As an aid to interpretation, reference radiographs have been developed and well accepted as means of identifying different types of indications and grading those indications for accept/reject decisions. Industrial radiography began in 1922 under the direction of HH Lester at the US Army Watertown Arsenal. The first radiography standards and reference radiographs appeared in the 1930s. ASTM International Committee E07 on Nondestructive Testing was formed out of Committee E04 on Metallography X-ray Methods subcommittee in 1938 when ASTM was the American Society for Testing Materials. An ASTM Subcommittee on Reference Radiographs was formed in 1950 and immediately adopted some of these first reference films as consensus standards. Since those first reference radiograph standards ASTM has developed both film and digital radiograph standards for 11 types of castings and 3 types of welds, several radiographic parameter demonstration films, a standard film for measuring film digitization performance, and films for evaluating visual acuity of radiograph interpreters. This paper discusses the history of reference films and the recent development of digital reference images, film digitizer performance film, and the visual acuity standard. The just-approved ASTM E3168 Standard Practice for Determining Low-Contrast Visual Acuity of Radiographic Interpreters is the first standard containing actual radiographic images of varying sharpness, contrast, and noise that can be used to evaluate interpreters and/or interpretation environments. This paper documents the initial statistical study performed on the visual acuity standard films.

Experimental Analysis of the Mechanical Characteristics of Vinyl Ester Composites Reinforced with Sisal Fiber for Prosthetic Socket

This research explores the scope of natural fibers for prosthetic socket application. A variety of conditions including maladies, accidents, and genetic disorders, necessitate the adoption of prosthetic organs. The human body undergoes significant physiological changes over time due to factors such as growth, weight fluctuations, and the periodic replacement and adjustment of appendages. In this study, biocomposite materials are fabricated using vacuum bag technology, with sisal fibers reinforced in vinyl ester at five different weight percentages: 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%. Mechanical characteristics are determined through destructive testing, including flexural, tensile, impact strength, and hardness measurements according to ASTM standards. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis is employed to assess factrography and bonding properties. Results indicate that the biocomposite with 15% sisal reinforcement exhibited superior tensile and impact resistance compared to other compositions and matrices. However, at the expense of impact strength, the 20% sisal-reinforced vinyl ester increased hardness and flexural strength by 47% and 27%, respectively. This research aims to expand natural fibers and their utility in biomaterial applications, outlining points for elaboration and enhancement in this field, along with addressing associated challenges.

Enhanced mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties of waste PET plastics reinforced with coated biodegradable kenaf fibers for infrastructure applications

The surge in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottle production has led to a rise in waste PET plastics. Recycling these waste PET plastics for infrastructural purposes offers a feasible solution to curb environmental pollution and the climatic impact caused by dumping vast quantities into landfills. Hence, efforts have been directed towards creating waste PET plastic composites reinforced with coated biodegradable natural kenaf fibers for infrastructural use. In the current research, waste PET plastic bottles (WPET) were processed into value-added composites compounded with coated kenaf natural fibers (CK) using the twin-screw extruder (TSE) and compression molding machines at an optimized temperature of 250 °C with a constant fiber weight percentage and epoxy coating concentration of 10 wt% and 25 % conc., respectively. The composites underwent analysis for mechanical, thermal, and microstructural properties based on relevant ASTM standards. Results indicate significant enhancement in surface interactions/interface and improved mechanical and thermal properties of kenaf fibers due to epoxy coating. Thermal stability improved to 409.4 °C from 397.0 °C due to coating, with a higher melting peak of 252.8 °C. These materials exhibit suitability for energy and building infrastructural applications, presenting an alternative, economical, and sustainable approach to managing the abundance of waste PET plastic bottles.