Mechanical and Thermal Behavior Analysis of Chicken Feather/Sesbania grandiflora Fibers-based Hybrid Epoxy Composites

Abstract

The mechanical and thermal properties of epoxy hybrid composites reinforced with natural fibers were studied, addressing the growing demand for eco-friendly materials. Fibers from chicken feathers (CF) and Sesbania grandiflora (SG) were used together with epoxy resin in composites, which were fabricated using the compression molding technique. Both the CF and SG fiber ratios ranged from 1:2 to 2:1, while fiber-to-resin weight proportions were set at 30:70 and 40:60. The composites were evaluated for mechanical and thermal characteristics in adherence to ASTM standards, with thermal properties assessed using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Surface morphology was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Process parameters were optimized using mathematical modeling, employing Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The hybrid composite with a 30:70 fiber/matrix ratio and a 2:1 CF/SG fiber combination demonstrated superior mechanical and thermal properties while showing reduced water absorption. A 30% fiber loading with a 2:1 CF/SG fiber ratio considerably enhanced the composite’s overall performance. The optimal blending ratio for hybrid composites was a 2:1 weight proportion of CF to SG fibers, offering a promising approach to developing sustainable materials with improved characteristics. This research highlights the potential of natural fibers in creating environmentally friendly composites.