Comparative investigation of mechanical properties in banana fiber and ramie fiber composites enhanced by SiC nanoparticles

Abstract

This research explores into analyzing the mechanical characteristics of banana fiber and ramie fiber composites bolstered with silicon carbide (SiC) nanoparticles. The integration of SiC nanoparticles aims to amplify the mechanical robustness and endurance of these natural fiber composites. Through water absorption assessments, we evaluated the composites’ resistance to moisture. In addition, we assessed the mechanical performance via hardness, impact, and three-point bending tests. The results indicate a significant enhancement in the mechanical attributes of both banana and ramie fiber composites due to SiC nanoparticle inclusion. The results reveal a notable enhancement in mechanical characteristics following the incorporation of SiC nanoparticles. Notably, composites containing 8% SiC nanoparticles demonstrated the highest hardness value of 102 HV and the lowest water absorption percentage of 1.5%. In addition, these composites exhibited a superior flexural strength (80 MPa) and modulus of elasticity (4.3 GPa), alongside a maximum impact energy absorption of 18 J. These findings underscore the beneficial influence of SiC nanoparticles on the mechanical properties of the composites, including increased strength, reduced water absorption, enhanced hardness, and improved impact resistance.