Author:
Prabhu Ravikantha,Mendonca Sharun,Bellairu Pavana Kumara,DSouza Rudolf Charles,Bhat Thirumaleshwara
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of titanium oxide (TiO2) filler on the abrasive wear properties of bamboo fiber reinforced epoxy composites (BFRCs) using a Taguchi approach. The study aims to enhance the abrasive wear resistance of these composites by introducing TiO2 filler as a potential reinforcement, thus contributing to the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly materials.
Design/methodology/approach
This study focuses on the fabrication of epoxy/bamboo composites infused with TiO2 particles within the Wt.% range of 0–8 Wt.% using hand layup techniques. The resulting composites were subjected to wear testing according to ASTM G99-05 standards. Statistical analysis of the wear results was carried out using the Taguchi design of experiments (DOE). Additionally, an analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the influential control factors impacting the specific wear rate (SWR) and coefficient of friction (COF).
Findings
The study illuminates how integrating TiO2 filler enhances abrasive wear in epoxy/bamboo composites. Statistical analysis of SWR highlights abrasive grit size (grit) as the most influential factor, followed by normal load, Wt.% of TiO2 and sliding distance. Analysis of the COF identifies normal load as the primary influential factor, followed by grit, Wt.% of TiO2 and sliding distance. The Taguchi predictive model closely aligns with experimental results, validating its reliability. The morphological study revealed significant differences between the unfilled and TiO2-filled composites. The inclusion of TiO2 improved wear resistance, as evidenced by reduced surface damage and wear debris.
Originality/value
This research paper aims to integrate TiO2 filler and bamboo fibers to create an innovative hybrid composite material. TiO2 micro and nanoparticles show promise as filler materials, contributing to improved tribological properties of epoxy composites. The utilization of Taguchi’s DOE and ANOVA for statistical analysis provides valuable guidance for academic researchers and practitioners in optimizing control variables, especially in the context of natural fiber reinforced composites.
Reference59 articles.
1. Characterization of recycled low density polyethylene and eggshell particulate composite (RLDPE/ESP);International Journal of Current Research,2015
2. Effect of alkaline treatment on physical, structural, mechanical and thermal properties of Bambusa Tulda (northeast Indian species) based sustainable green composites;Polymer Composites,2023
3. Mechanical properties and abrasive wear of different weight percentage of TiC filled basalt fabric reinforced epoxy composites;Materials Research,2019
4. An investigation into the wear behaviour of a hybrid metal matrix composite under dry sliding conditions using Taguchi and ANOVA methods;Journal of Bio- and Tribo-Corrosion,2022