Perspective on the mechanical response of pineapple leaf filler/toughened epoxy composites under diverse constraints

In view of fiber orientation problem and seminal ecological economics, the present research work is concentrated on the development of 'commercial adhesive grade' epoxy composite reinforced with surface-modified low-cost 'agronomic waste'- based pineapple leaf (PALF) fillers. To overcome the potential adhesion and moisture absorption issues, surface modification of fillers is accomplished with alkaline treatment. The change occurred in the crystal structure and thermal stability of fillers before and after the treatment is quantified using X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. The composite samples are subjected to the tensile test with varying strain rate to investigate its effect on the tensile properties and failure behavior of materials. In addition to this, the plane-strain fracture toughness and flexural test have also been carried out to evaluate the composite properties in bending mode with and without the preexisted crack in materials. The dynamic mechanical analysis has also been conducted from room temperature to 150 degrees C to evaluate the temperature dependence of mechanical properties. The crystallinity of treated filler has been improved by 8 % due to the loss of non-cellulosic components from filler molecules. The highest value of ultimate tensile strength and Young's modulus are 22 MPa and 570 MPa, respectively. The maximum values of storage modulus of 10 GPa and glass transition temperature of 91 degrees C were observed for 2.5 % and 12.5 % of filler content, respectively. From these findings, it is envisaged that the balanced tensile and dynamic mechanical properties of PALF-epoxy composites will elucidate their potential applications.