Enhancing the Free Vibration Characteristics of Epoxy Polymers Using Sustainable Phoenix Sp. Fibers and Nano-Clay for Machine Tool Applications

This study focuses on enhancing the free vibration characteristics of epoxy polymers by reinforcing it with Phoenix sp. fibers and nano-clay for the first time. The composites were prepared by varying the fiber length, fiber volume fraction, concentration of NaOH treatment, and weight percentage of nano-clay and subjected to modal analysis. The optimum fiber length and fiber volume fraction for better vibration characteristics is found to be 30 mm and 40%, respectively. Moreover, the results revealed that the chemical treatment and nano-clay addition show the largest effect on vibration behavior of the composites. Based on the experimental data, it is concluded that the natural frequency of epoxy polymer could be enhanced up to 242% by using aforesaid reinforcements.

Automated summary

This study found that adding Phoenix sp. fibers and nano-clay to epoxy polymers can significantly enhance their free vibration characteristics, with the optimal fiber length and volume fraction being 30 mm and 40%, respectively. Additionally, it was observed that chemical treatment and nano-clay addition have the largest impact on the vibration behavior of the composites.