Cyclic thermal treatment parameters of bagasse particle reinforced epoxy bio-composites for sustainable applications

Abstract

Abstract The demand for sustainable, high-performance materials has led to increased interest in bio-based composites. However, optimizing the mechanical properties of such materials for engineering applications remains a challenge. This study addresses this gap by developing and characterizing an epoxy-based biocomposite reinforced with sugarcane bagasse particles, focusing on the influence of cyclic thermal treatment on its properties. The bagasse particles were chemically treated with 1 M NaOH to remove impurities, improve interfacial bonding with the epoxy matrix, and enhance the overall composite performance. The treated particles j were pulverized to 470 µm and incorporated into the epoxy matrix (0–20 wt%) using the hand layup method. The composites were divided into untreated and thermally treated groups, with the latter subjected to cyclic thermal treatment (100 °C for 3 h over 7 days). Mechanical, wear, and water absorption properties were evaluated, while fractured surface morphologies were analyzed using SEM. Results revealed that cyclic thermal treatment significantly enhanced the composites’ performance, with the 15 wt% heat-treated composite showing optimal properties: density of 1.102 g/cm 3 , flexural strength of 29.13 MPa, ultimate tensile strength of 103.50 MPa, impact strength of 3.49 kJ/m 2 , hardness of 64.70 HS, and wear indices of 0.034 mg. These findings demonstrate that alkali treatment and cyclic thermal treatment synergistically enhance the performance of bio-composites, making them suitable for diverse applications, including automotive, aerospace, and other engineering fields.