Deep analysis of chemically treated Jute/Kenaf and glass fiber reinforced with SiO2 nanoparticles by utilizing RSM optimization

Abstract

In recent years, eco-friendly materials have gained significant attention, especially in substituting synthetic fibers with natural fibers in epoxy matrices. This study focuses on enhancing the flexural and hardness properties of composites reinforced with natural jute and kenaf fibers. The fibers were treated with different concentrations of silane (5 %, 10 %, and 15 %), varied silane dipping times (10, 20, and 30 min), and different amounts of SiO₂ nanofiller (3 %, 4 %, and 5 % by weight). An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to understand the impact of these treatment conditions on the composite properties. To optimize the flexural and hardness attributes, the study employed the desirability function (DF) and response surface methodology (RSM). Experimental results closely matched predicted values, affirming the model's accuracy. The study found that silane concentration had a significant effect on the flexural and hardness properties. Through RSM, the ideal treatment was identified as 5 % nanoparticle content, 10 % silane concentration, and a 20-minute silane immersion. These conditions led to a 26 % improvement in flexural strength and a 28 % increase in hardness with microanalysis done by SEM as well as Dynamic mechanical anaylsis (DMA) showcasing the potential of treated natural fiber composites in sustainable material applications.