Structural analysis and mechanical properties of lignite fly-ash-added jute–epoxy polymer matrix composite

Abstract

The role of lignite fly ash in determining the physical properties of polymer matrix composite is studied in the present investigation. For that, different compositions of polymer matrix composite were prepared using epoxy polymer resin with lignite fly ash and jute fiber in the combination of (90 −  x) EP − 10 JF −  xLFA (where x = 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5 wt.%) through hand layup technique followed by light compression molding technique. The changes in the physical properties of polymer matrix composite, when fly ash was added, were found to be quite interesting. A linear increase in mechanical strength such as compressive strength, tensile strength, flexural strength, impact energy, and barcol hardness was observed up to the addition of 2 wt.% fly ash content in the polymer matrix composite. Scanning electron microscope image of the composite sample EPJF2.0 showed the distribution of the fly ash, minimal voids, and fiber pullouts presented at the fractured surface. Of all the prepared polymer matrix composites, the sample EPJF2.0 showed a higher mechanical strength and better thermal stability than the other samples.