Optimizing Nanocellulose Content for Improved Tensile and Impact Strength in Epoxy Resin Composites

Abstract

This research article delves into the promising realm of nanocellulose as a potential reinforcement material in epoxy resin composites, specifically emphasizing its mechanical and thermal properties. Nanocellulose, derived from plant sources, offers exceptional characteristics such as sustainability, high aspect ratio and superior mechanical attributes, making it a valuable candidate for various applications. This study explores the effects of incorporating nanocellulose into epoxy resin through vacuum casting. Tensile, impact, hardness and thermal analyses were performed on the resulting composite materials. Tensile tests revealed that adding dry nanocellulose in epoxy resin decreased tensile strength and elongation, turning the material from ductile to brittle. However, the composite with 4% nanocellulose exhibited the highest tensile strength among the tested ratios. Impact tests demonstrated a similar trend, with 4% nanocellulose improving impact strength compared to other ratios, albeit not reaching the level of the pure solution. Hardness tests showed marginal changes in the material's hardness, making it slightly less complicated than the pure composite. Thermal analysis through Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) indicated that the melting point of the composite with 4% nanocellulose increased from the pure solution, signifying potential improvements in thermal characteristics. These results contribute to understanding nanocellulose's influence on the mechanical and thermal properties of epoxy composites, emphasizing the need for further optimization to achieve desired material characteristics. By investigating the impact of nanocellulose content on epoxy composites, this study adds insights into the potential applications of nanocellulose in enhancing material properties for diverse sectors, such as defence, textile and material sciences. The research underscores the importance of tailoring nanocellulose content to achieve desired mechanical and thermal attributes, opening avenues for future research and development in green and sustainable nanomaterials.