Effect of Aluminium Tetrahydrate Nanofiller Addition on the Mechanical and Thermal Behaviour of Luffa Fibre-Based Polyester Composites under Cryogenic Environment

Abstract

In recent times, research has shifted away from conventional materials and alloys and more towards nanocomposites to create lighter, more efficient materials for specific applications. The major goal of this research is to see how successful adding aluminium tetrahydride (ATH) filler to a luffa fibre/polyester-based hybrid composite is. The compression moulding process was used to create the nanocomposite. The following limitations were used to achieve the goals mentioned above: (i) weight percent of ATH, (ii) weight percent of luffa fibres, and (iii) cryogenic treatment hours. The mechanical properties of the materials, such as flexural, tensile, and impact, were examined. The scanning electron microscope observed the morphology pictures, revealing flaws such as interface behaviour, fibre pullouts, voids, and interior cracks. As a result, the current study found that adding nanofiller to a natural fibre composite can improve its mechanical properties, because it established a strong link between the matrix and its reinforcements, which would aid in the effective transmission of stress in the hybrid system. It also improved moisture resistance, which might be useful in construction and commercial industries. The composite with 1 wt.% of ATH, 24 wt.% of luffa fibres, and 30 minutes of cryogenic treatment showed better mechanical strength. Cryogenic treatment reduces compressive interface stresses, which helps maintain fibre and matrix in contact and improve adhesion, resulting in superior results. TGA analysis was used to confirm it.