Izod Impact Tests Research Articles

Enhancing Composite Performance: Hydrothermally Treated Wood Reinforcement in Recycled Polypropylene

The low thermal stability of cellulose presents unique technological challenges to the formulation of wood and plastic composites that are compatible and processable. For this, hydrothermal modification is a well-established technology for improving dimensional stability and durability of wood's components, in addition to providing better interaction with the polymer. This study produced polymer composites in which hydrothermally treated wood waste fibers (WT) reinforce a recycled polypropylene (RPP) matrix. Wood waste fibers were selected by grain size and distribution, treated hydrothermally, and characterized by SEM, ATR-FTIR, and water sorption. Composites were produced varying the reaction time of treatment hydrothermal (from 30 to 180 minutes), granulometric size (from 425 to 1400 μm) and percentage of WT (from 10 to 20%), following a 2³ full-factorial experimental design, by extrusion with internal recirculation and the mechanical test specimens were modulated by injection. Tensile, flexion, IZOD impact and water sorption tests were statistically analyzed. Reaction time was the most statistically significant factor. Composites of wood waste fibers treated for 30 min and containing 20% of WT presented better mechanical properties than expected. However, the preservation of the lamellar fibers during the reaction time allowed for better adherence to the polymer, and the insertion of a greater quantity of fibers in the material provided greater rigidity in the composite. In general, the results obtained gives properties of stability and resistance to damage of composites containing hydrothermally treated wood fibers.

Mechanical Behaviour of Carbon Steel-Aluminium Laminated Composites under Impact Tests

Composite materials are engineered by combining two or more distinct constituent materials to create a new material with properties superior to those of its individual components. These materials exhibit exceptional attributes such as high stiffness and strength, low density, excellent thermal stability, high electrical and thermal conductivity, adjustable thermal expansion coefficients, corrosion resistance, and enhanced wear resistance. In this study, Izod and Charpy impact tests were conducted on laminated composites and their parent materials, including Carbon Steel (SAE 1042) and various aluminium alloys: 6061-T6, 6082-T651, and 5083-H112. The investigation focused on comparing the mechanical properties of these composites with one another, identify the most suitable composite with superior mechanical performance. The Izod and Charpy tests were conducted, and the results indicated that the Aluminium 6082-T651 combination exhibited the highest impact resistance and superior fracture resistance among the materials tested

Characterization of Mycelium Biocomposites under Simulated Weathering Conditions.

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) remains a popular packaging material despite environmental concerns such as pollution, difficulty to recycle, and toxicity to wildlife. The goal of this study is to evaluate the potential of an ecofriendly alternative to traditional EPS composed of a mycelium biocomposite grown from agricultural waste. In this material, the mycelium spores are incorporated into cellulosic waste, resulting in a structurally sound biocomposite completely enveloped by mycelium fibers. One of the main criteria for shipping applications is the ability of a material to withstand extreme weather conditions. Accordingly, this study focused on evaluating a commercially available mycelium material before and after exposure to various weathering conditions, including high and low temperatures at different humidity levels. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was performed to examine any transformations in the mycelium structure and composition, whereas scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to reveal any changes in the morphology. Similarly, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analyses were conducted to evaluate the thermal behavior, whereas mechanical properties were measured by using shore hardness and Izod Impact testing. Although some irreversible changes were observed due to the exposure to high temperatures, the material exhibited good thermal stability and impact resistance. FTIR analysis demonstrated small changes in the biocomposite structure and protein rearrangement as a result of weathering, whereas SEM revealed some cracking in the cellulose substrate. A combination of low temperatures and humidity resulted in significant moisture absorption, as indicated by TGA and DSC. This in turn decreased the hardness of the fibers by nearly 2-fold; however, the impact strength of the entire biocomposite remained unchanged. Overall, these results provide important insight into the structure-property relationships of mycelium-based materials.

Mechanical characterization of new bi-material generated by additive manufacturing: IZOD test–puncture impact behaviour

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to characterize a new structural bi-material (scaffold and filler).Design/methodology/approachThe bi-material has been obtained by means of an additive manufacturing system consisting of a fused filament fabrication extruder head and an epoxy resin depositor head. The new bi-material will consist of a thermoplastic material that will serve as the main structure and an epoxy resin that will serve as a filler and adhesion between layers. The creation of this new bi-material will improve the physical–chemical and mechanical properties with respect to the thermoplastic material. This paper will focus on the impact behavior of IZOD and the impact behavior of punctures.FindingsThe new polylactic acid (PLA) and epoxy bi-material allow improvements in toughness and puncture impact resistance compared to the PLA thermoplastic. This increase in toughness is between 20% and 30% depending on the orientation of the print. In the same way, the energy absorbed in the puncture impact test has been increased by 42%–48%.Practical implicationsThe improvement in the impact absorption capacity of this new bi-material makes it ideal for the manufacture of medical parts in which customization, lightness and impact resistance are their main characteristics such as sports protection systems.Originality/valueThe originality of creating parts through additive manufacturing that combines a material generated with cold extrusion, such as epoxy resin and a material generated with hot extrusion, such as thermoplastics, lies in the unique synergy that this mixed and simultaneous technique offers. By uniting these two manufacturing methods, it allows the exploration of new physical and chemical properties in the resulting parts, taking advantage of the individual advantages of each material. This combination opens the door to the creation of components with a wider range of characteristics, from strength and durability to flexibility and temperature resistance, thus offering innovative and versatile solutions for various applications in fields such as engineering, medicine and design.

Investigation of the mechanical properties of lavender-reinforced heat-activated polymethyl methacrylate denture base resin

Statement of problemThe antimicrobial efficacy of lavender has been well evidenced. However, investigations into its impact on the mechanical properties of denture resins are lacking. PurposeThe purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the flexural strength, impact strength, surface characteristics, roughness, elastic modulus, and yield strength of lavender-reinforced, heat-activated polymethyl methacrylate denture base resin. Material and methodsA total of 200 specimens were categorized into 5 groups based on 0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 wt% of dry lavender extract incorporated into heat-activated polymethyl methacrylate denture base resin powder. Unmodified resin served as the control group. Flexural strength, elastic moduli, and yield strength were determined with a universal testing machine, impact strength with an Izod impact tester, surface characteristics with scanning electron microscopy, and roughness with a profilometer. The data were statistically analyzed with 1-way ANOVA followed by Tukey post hoc tests for pairwise comparison within the groups (α=.05). ResultsCompared with the control group, all the mechanical properties significantly improved with the addition of lavender (P<.001). The highest flexural, yield, and impact strengths and elastic modulus values were in the 2% group. Elevated surface roughness in 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 wt% and a decline in roughness at 2 wt% were noted when compared with the control group. ConclusionsThe addition of lavender enhanced the flexural strength, yield strength, impact strength, elastic moduli, and decreased surface roughness when added at 2 wt%.

Investigation of Ductility and Damage Behavior of C/GFRP Composite Laminates under Bending Loads

Carbon and glass fabric reinforced polymer (C/GFRP) composites are extensively used in aerospace and sports industry because of their exceptional properties. However, during service, static and dynamic bending loads can ensue damage in composites affecting their strength, stiffness and energy absorption. Carbon fiber composites, being inherently brittle, are prone to sudden catastrophic fracture without ductile-like behavior of metals. This study investigates mechanical behavior and damage mechanisms of woven C/GFRP composites in on- and off-axis orientations during bending. Initially, bending tests with quasi-static loading were performed, followed by dynamic ones using an Izod impact testing apparatus. Results showed distinct behavior in on-axis CFRP laminates with brittle fracture. Off-axis CFRP samples and both on- and off-axis GFRP laminates showed signs of damage and non-linear behavior, yet they retained their ability to bear loads. Significantly, off-axis specimens of both types and on-axis GFRP laminates exhibited enhanced energy absorption capabilities without experiencing fracture, undergoing pseudo-ductile deformation. CFRP specimens were analyzed with micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), provided insights into prevalent damage modes such as matrix mircocracking, debonding of tows, delamination and breakage of fabric. While on-axis CFRP laminates experienced brittle fracture, off-axis specimens exhibited a ductile-like response attributed to matrix plasticity, cracking and fiber trellising before eventual failure.

Evaluation of the thermomechanical properties of novel epoxy composites reinforced with Geonoma baculifera fibers

Natural lignocellulosic fibers (NLFs) have shown a great potential as reinforcements in composites in recent decades. Among other reasons, environmental concerns and the depletion of oil reserves justify research on natural composites as they offer an environmentally friendly alternative and align with the principles of sustainable development. Among the plethora of NLFs available in nature, the ubim fiber (Geonoma baculifera) has not yet been investigated as a reinforcement for composites in potential engineering applications. Therefore, this study evaluates, for the first time, the mechanical properties of epoxy composites with 10, 20, and 30 vol% of ubim fibers. These properties were assessed through Izod impact, tensile and flexural tests as well as dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The data were statistically analyzed using the ANOVA method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis indicated a transition from a purely brittle fracture mechanism to a ductile-brittle combination as the fiber volume in the composite increased. Tensile tests of the composites demonstrated an increasing trend in strength and elastic modulus with fiber volume. The results of the flexural tests also displayed a similar trend in strength and elasticity modulus for the composites. The results of DMA tests showed that composite materials with a 30 vol% of ubim fibers exhibited a high glass transition temperature and a low tan δ value, suggesting higher stiffness of this composite compared to others. Overall, the results indicated that the incorporation of 30 vol% ubim fibers into the composites significantly improved their mechanical properties compared to other tested fiber fractions. Additionally, their functional characteristics, such as simplicity in the manufacturing process, low cost, and excellent strength-to-weight ratio, make these composites particularly suitable for applications in sectors such as the automotive industry, construction panels, and packaging. These factors contribute to the development of an efficient, sustainable, recyclable and environmentally friendly composite.

Processing of Reduced Graphene Oxide Reinforced Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene for Orthopedic Implants

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) has been used as a bearing material in total joint replacements due to its excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility. The acetabular cup in total hip replacement and the tibial component in total knee replacement is widely fabricated from UHMWPE. The use of UHMWPE in total joint replacements is well established, and the goal is to improve its mechanical properties, wear resistance, and oxidation resistance. The quality and life span of the artificial joints can be further increased by enhancing the relevant mechanical properties of UHMWPE. The addition of filler material to UHMWPE is an effective way to enhance its relevant properties. In this study, relevant properties of UHMWPE were enhanced by incorporating an appropriate filler. Reduced Graphene Oxide (rGO) was selected as a filler material as it improves mechanical properties, wear resistance, toughness, and thermal stability. Graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized by Modified Hummer’s Method (MHM), and it was thermally reduced to obtain rGO. The synthesized GO was characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) which confirmed the accurate synthesis. The reduction of GO was validated by the disappearance of (OH) broad peak in the FTIR analysis. The rGO/UHMWPE nanocomposite was prepared by adding 0.7 wt.% of rGO employing the solvent mixing method. The morphology of the composite was validated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Tensile and Izod Impact tests were performed on the samples which showed an increase in tensile strength of 33.2% and the impact strength increased by 140.5%. The rGO/UHMWPE nanocomposite with greater tensile and impact strength is an excellent candidate to produce orthopedic implants with superior properties.

Impact Absorption Power of Polyolefin Fused Filament Fabrication 3D-Printed Sports Mouthguards: InVitro Study.

This study aims to evaluate and compare the impact absorption capacities of thermoformed ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) mouthguards and 3D-printed polyolefin mouthguards used in sports dentistry applications. The objective is to determine whether 3D-printed polyolefin mouthguards offer superior impact toughness compared to traditional EVA mouthguards commonly used in sports settings. Six material samples were assessed: five pressure-formed EVA mouthguards (PolyShok, Buffalo Dental, Erkoflex, Proform, and Drufosoft) and one 3D-printed synthetic polymer (polyolefin). The materials were evaluated using a modified American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D256 Test Method A for Izod pendulum impact resistance of plastics. Polyolefin samples were 3D-printed using fused filament fabrication (FFF) technology. Notably, the FFF process included samples printed with notches placed either parallel or perpendicular to the build direction. This orientation served as a study factor, allowing for comparison of material behavior under different printing conditions. Impact testing was conducted using an Izod impact tester to assess the materials' performance under controlled impact conditions. The study achieved a high power (1.0) in power analysis, indicating strong sensitivity to detect significant differences. Among molded materials, PolyShok showed significantly lower impact toughness compared to others (p = 0.06). The mean impact absorption of EVA materials was 5.4 ± 0.3 kJ/m2, significantly lower than polyolefin materials, which demonstrated 12.9 ± 0.7 kJ/m2 and superior performance (p = 0.0). Horizontal-notched polyolefin samples exhibited higher impact strength compared to vertical-notched samples (p = 0.009). 3D-printed polyolefin mouthguards exhibited significantly higher impact toughness than thermoformed EVA mouthguards. While EVA materials demonstrated structural robustness, their lower impact resistance and observed tearing in other test specimens suggest the need for alternative testing standards to better reflect real-world conditions. 3D-printed mouthguards fabricated with build orientations perpendicular to the direction of impact demonstrate significantly enhanced impact absorption. Further research into manufacturing methods and testing protocols is recommended to optimize mouthguard performance under impact scenarios.

Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of ABS-like Resin for Stereolithography Versus ABS for Fused Deposition Modeling in Three-Dimensional Printing Applications for Odontology.

This study investigates the differences in mechanical properties between acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) samples produced using fused deposition modeling (FDM) and stereolithography (SLA) using ABS filaments and ABS-like resin, respectively. The central question is to determine how these distinct printing techniques affect the properties of ABS and ABS-like resin and which method delivers superior performance for specific applications, particularly in dental treatments. The evaluation methods used in this study included Shore D hardness, accelerated aging, tensile testing, Izod impact testing, flexural resistance measured by a 3-point bending test, and compression testing. Poisson's ratio was also assessed, along with microstructure characterization, density measurement, confocal microscopy, dilatometry, wettability, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and nanoindentation. It was concluded that ABS has the same hardness in both manufacturing methods; however, the FDM process results in significantly superior mechanical properties compared to SLA. Microscopy demonstrates a more accurate sample geometry when fabricated with SLA. It is also concluded that printable ABS is suitable for applications in dentistry to fabricate models and surgical guides using the SLA and FDM methods, as well as facial protectors for sports using the FDM method.

Optimization of TIG welding process parameters using Taguchi technique for the joining of dissimilar metals of AA5083 and AA7075

This research paper aims to optimize the TIG welding parameters to join dissimilar metals of AA5083 and AA7075 using the Taguchi technique. The TIG welding current and root gap of butt geometry configuration are considered input parameters, and welding characteristics such as tensile strength, 0.2% of yield strength, hardness, and impact energy are output responses. The base metals are joined according to the Taguchi L-09 design of experiments. The welded samples were inspected using the X-ray radiography method for internal defects. Tensile properties, hardness number, and impact energy of different welding coupons were evaluated by conducting the uni-axial testing, a Brinell hardness test, and an Izod impact test, respectively. A better weld strength of 224 MPa was observed at 210 A welding current, and the root gap of 1.5 mm was maintained. Better hardness and impact energy values were observed when the root gap of 1.5 mm and welding current of 220 A were maintained. The root gap is the primary factor influencing tensile strength enhancement, which accounts for 44.78% of the effect, followed by 40.5% welding current. Root gap is the parameter that affects the tensile properties, hardness number, and impact toughness the most. The findings of this paper suggest the optimal parameters for welding AA5083 and AA7075 dissimilar base metals, which are suitable for complex structures requiring both durability and resistance to harsh environments.

Prediction of Mechanical Properties of Synthetic Waste Reinforced Polyolefins with GA-LSTM Hybrid Model

In this study, the effects of the production parameters used in injection molding of particle-reinforced thermoplastics on the product quality and mechanical properties of the produced part are modeled using an optimized Genetic Algorithm-Long Short Term Memory (GA-LSTM) hybrid deep learning method. Here, LDPE, HDPE, and PP, the most important members of the polyolefins group, were used as thermoplastics, while powdered synthetic paint wastes were evaluated as reinforcement elements. Using different parameters, 819 specimens were produced by injection molding, and mechanical tensile, three-point bending, and izod impact tests were performed on each specimen. The GA-LSTM model was trained with the parameters used and the results obtained during the experimental process, and the predicted values were determined to correspond to the actual values. Well-known methods were used to measure the success of the hybrid GA-LSTM model. The designed GA-LSTM model produced the best outcomes, according to the results attained.

Pattern optimization for 3D printing of composite filament materials with natural fibers and polylactic acid

Composite fiber materials developed through Fused Deposit Modeling (FDM) in high demand in fabricating automotive, machinery components such as bearings, sleeves, bumpers, windshields, etc. In this article, a new composite filament with natural fiber (Flax) and polylactic acid was prepared and their mechanical properties were analyzed. Taguchi approaches L27 orthogonal array was used to optimize the process parameters layer thickness (0.15, 0.25, 0.35 mm) for 0.4 mm nozzle with filling structure (L1—lines, L2—triangles, L3—octet), speed of nozzle movement (80,100,120 mm/s) and occupancy ratios (20%, 40%, 60%) were chosen as process parameters. Tensile and Impacts test have been carried with American Society of Testing and Materials Standard (ASTM D638 and ASTM D256) to evaluate the tensile strength, percentage of elongation and impacts strength of the fabricated specimens. The results emphasized that layer thickness significant influences the tensile characteristics as compared to better process parameters. The occupancy ratio at 20% and 40% with triangle and octet filling structure, nozzle speed of 100 mm/s at constant extruder temperature of 200°C have been found to optimize 3D printing parameters in this work. They were calculated as tensile strength 61.13 MPa, percentage of elongation is 4.43% and Izod impact test is 12.77 kJ/m2.

Studies on mechanical, thermal, rheological and impact properties of polyamide 6 and thermoplastic copoly(ether-ester) elastomer blends

A series of blends of polyamide 6 (PA-6) (nylon-6) and a copoly(ether-ester) (HYTREL) were prepared by the melt-mixing method using a twin-screw extruder. The HYTREL content was varied from 0% to 25% by weight of the blends. Thermal and rheological studies on the blends using differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and capillary rheometer showed that the blends are semi-compatible in nature. A two-phase globular morphology of the blends was established by scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. The matrix ligament thickness (interparticle distance) in each blend composition was measured from SEM images and compared with those calculated using Wu’s equation. The impact strength of the blends as measured by the Izod impact test was found to be substantially improved as a result of the incorporation of HYTREL. The toughness determined by loss area calculation from the DMA spectrum showed similar trends. The toughness was found to be optimal in a blend having 15 wt.% HYTREL with an average dispersed particle size of around 450 nm. The yield stress of the blend decreased in comparison to PA-6 on addition of HYTREL, while the thermal stability of PA-6 remained unaffected.

Comparison study of Izod impact properties on 3D printed thermoplastic and thermoset carbon fiber composite at different infill density

PurposeThis study aims to evaluate the low energy impact characteristics of 3D printed carbon fiber thermoplastic and thermoset polymer composite using the Izod impact test. The effects of infill density are examined on the Izod impact properties of 3D printed thermoset polymer and thermoplastic composite specimens. Furthermore, a thorough investigation is conducted into the effect of heat treatment using a hot-air oven on both types of 3D printed composite specimens. To characterize the impact characteristics of each specimen, the fracture surfaces caused by impact load are inspected, and the fracture mechanism is studied using scanning electron micrographs.Design/methodology/approachIzod Impact specimens of thermoset (epoxy resin) and thermoplastic carbon fiber of different infill density (70, 75, 80, 85, 90 and 100%) are fabricated using the different fiber impregnation 3D printing process. To carry out the heat treatment process, printing of composites is done for each infill design from both thermoset and thermoplastic composites and the impact characteristics of specimens are evaluated on a pendulum test-rig using the ASTM D-256 standard. Using a scanning electron microscope, each fracture zone underwent four separate scanning processes, ranging in size from 2 µm to 100 µm.FindingsThe impact resistance of the 3D printed thermoset and thermoplastic composite material is significantly influenced by the type of fiber placement and infill density in the matrix substrate. Because of the weak interfacial strength between the layers of fiber and polyamide 6, the specimen printed with continuous fiber implanted at the part exhibited reduced impact resistance. At 75% infill density, the impact specimen printed with coextruded fiber showed the highest impact resistance with a 367.02% greater magnitude than the continuous fiber specimen with the same infill density.Originality/valueThis work presents a novel approach to analyze the low energy impact characteristics and three-dimensional printing of carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic and carbon fiber reinforced thermoset and thermoplastic composite material.

Fabrication of ramie/hemp fibers-reinforced hybrid polymer composite—A comprehensive study on biological and structural application

This study primarily investigates the antibacterial properties, tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strength, hardness, and microstructural characteristics of a composite, utilizing Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for detailed analysis. The composite, crafted through a hand layup technique, optimally blends ramie and hemp fibers within an epoxy matrix. Its antibacterial efficacy was rigorously tested against common bacterial strains, demonstrating significant potential for medical and hygienic applications. The evaluation of tensile strength revealed the composite’s enhanced capability to withstand longitudinal stresses, with a peak strength of 37.81 MPa, achieved by increasing ramie fiber content. In addition, a flexural strength of 39.72 MPa underscored the material’s robust resistance to bending forces, crucial for structural uses. The composite’s impact strength, accessed via the Izod impact test, registered at 0.021 J/m2, indicating its ability to absorb and dissipate energy upon sudden impacts, making it ideal for automotive and protective gear applications. The Rockwell hardness test further quantified the composite’s resistance to surface indentation, vital for wear-resistant surfaces. SEM analysis offered a comprehensive view of the microstructural dynamics between the fibers and the matrix, especially under tensile stress, highlighting the intricacies of fiber–matrix adhesion, crack propagation, and overall composite integrity. Notably, the antibacterial properties were confirmed by an 18 mm inhibition zone, which showcases the composite’s ability to inhibit bacterial growth effectively.

Mechanical and Viscoelastic Behavior Characterization of Hybrid Aluminum/Carbon Fiber/Pineapple Leaf Fiber Composite via VARTM for Automotive Industry

ABSTRACT Hybridizing natural and synthetic fibers is thought to be an alternate technique for achieving the desired balance between the mechanical performance and sustainability of fiber metal laminates (FMLs). The aluminum (Al)/pineapple leaf fiber (PALF)/carbon fiber (CF) reinforced epoxy composites with five stacking sequences were fabricated by the vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) method. The effects of the hybridization and layering sequence on mechanical and viscoelastic properties have been investigated by the hardness, interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), and Izod impact test, along with dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The study found that A1 (ACPCA) showed significant improvements over non-hybrid AP (APPPA), with 86.50% better ILSS and 59.59% higher impact strength. Compared to A2 (APCPA), A1’s ILSS and impact strength were 26.26% and 38.38% better, respectively, due to two CF layers. Hybrid FML A3 (CPAPC) had the lowest impact strength at 97.77 kJ/m2 among FMLs with aluminum outer layers. DMA tests showed all hybrids were stiffer than non-hybrid AP, with A1 having superior viscoelastic properties. This suggests PALF and CF in natural fiber metal laminates (NFMLs) could be promising for automotive applications.

Experimental Investigation of Hardness and Impact Variability in Wooden Agricultural Equipment

This study was conducted to determine the hardness testing and Impact testing of selected Timbers to be used in agricultural implements in Pantnagar, Udam Singh Nagar, between September 2015 and April 2016. The Rockwell hardness test is generally performed when quick and direct reading is desirable. The Rockwell hardness test was carried on the Digital Hardness testing machine on HRV-Scale. The impact strength of a material is determined with a Charpy or Izod impact test named after their inventors. the hardness of different types of timber, namely, Teak, Sal, Java plum, Eucalyptus, Yellow teak, North Indian Rose timber, red cedar, Mango, Margosa and Lebbeck was found to be 75.4, 79.1, 68.2, 69.1, 64.0, 87.1, 30.8, 63.2, 61.7 and 64.3 respectively. the Impact Strength of different types of timber, namely, Eucalyptus, Yellow teak, Teak, Lebbeck, Java plum, Mango, Red cedar, North Indian Rose timber, Margosa and Sal was found to be 49.2, 39.23, 56.71, 52.21, 46.3, 48.37, 49.2, 45.23, 41.6 and 58.89 KJ/m2 respectively. And their standard deviations were as follows: yellow teak (0.67), Red cedar (1.09), North Indian Rose timber (2.12), Teak (0.23), Lebbeck (7.95), Java plum (0.34), Eucalyptus (0.34), Margosa (0.71), Mango (0.87) and Sal (1.36) respectively. The timber of North Indian rose timber and Sal was found suitable for making Plankar, pulley and bearing block. The timber of North Indian rose timber, Sal and Eucalyptus was found best for making plough bottom.

A comparison of additive manufactured to injection molded Martian regolith based polymer matrix composites

The completed study investigated the creation of Martian regolith simulant composite parts using injection molding and additive manufacturing. Traditional manufacturing techniques such as injection molding are not feasible on the Martian surface therefore in-situ processes must be developed using additive manufacturing processes to prepare habitats prior to having a human presence on the surface. The goal of this study was to investigate the impacts of additive manufacturing on the material property values between parts made using traditional injection molding and additive manufacturing. Martian regolith simulant composite pellets were created by combining a Martian regolith simulant at 40 wt% loading with polypropylene via twin screw extrusion. This material was then used to create test specimens using injection molding and additive manufacturing. Samples underwent tensile, flexural, Izod impact, and immersion density tests according to ASTM International and standardized test instructions. Additive manufactured parts saw a nearly 40% reduction in tensile and flexural strength with more than double the tensile modulus when compared to injection molded parts. The flexural modulus for additive manufacturing was around 36% that of the injection molded part with a minor decrease in density of around 13%. The collected test results suggested that while there were differences in the material property values between the manufacturing processes, a more interesting foaming behavior of the extrudite was observed during the additive manufacturing process resulting in an extremely rough and pitted surface. This rough surface finish was a stark comparison to the smooth injection molded parts. This observed foaming behavior in the polymeric composite material during thermal processing prompted the theory that thermal releases from the Martian regolith simulant was the most likely cause of the observed differences. Pellet surface moisture tests, Martian regolith simulant thermogravimetric analyses, and literature reviews of thermal decomposition of the Martian regolith simulant constituents revealed that most likely olivine releases oxygen and hydrated silica releases water during the thermal processing of the Martian regolith simulant composite. During a closed mold process such as injection molding, these volatile gases are forced out of the part by the pressures of the molding process, but in an open to atmosphere process such as additive manufacturing these gases foam to the surface during cooling leaving the part with an inferior surface finish.

Development and mechanical characterization of horse hair with titanium dioxide nanoparticles reinforced polyester composite

This study aims to examine the effects of waste material more especially horse hair as fiber on mechanical and physical properties. Tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness properties of horse hair fiber and titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) polyester composite were investigated to determine whether the latter might be used as a new material in various engineering applications for a longer life. To improve the impact resistance of the composite, horse hair fiber is mixed in different ratios with titanium dioxide and polyester as filler. Tensile, flexural, and impact mechanical properties were assessed using the Universal Testing Machine, the Rockwell Hardness Testing Machine, and the Izod Impact Test. Specimens were hand-put up using various fiber weight ratios. The results of this study showed that Specimen 5 showed a tremendous increase in flexural strength (98.87 MPa), tensile strength (91.46 MPa), hardness (115 HV), impact strength (15.98 J m−1), and water uptake (10.18%) as compared to the neat and also with the other Specimens. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to investigate the fracture surface in more detail in order to search for failure mechanisms and the dispersion of nanoparticles. SEM micrographs verified the uniform dispersion of the nanoparticles. Results suggest that these composites can be used as a material for a variety of applications, including biological claims that they are a practical, durable, and environmentally friendly choice.