Effect of TiO₂ filler on mechanical and tribological properties of Owen bamboo fiber reinforced epoxy composite

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to report the effect of titanium oxide (TiO2) particles on the physical, mechanical, tribological and water resistance properties of 5% NaOH-treated bamboo fiber–reinforced composites. Design/methodology/approach In this research, the epoxy/bamboo/TiO2 hybrid composite filled with 0–8 Wt.% TiO2 particles has been fabricated using simple hand layup techniques, and testing of the developed composite was done in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard. Findings The results of this study indicate that the addition of TiO2 particles improved the mechanical properties of the developed epoxy/bamboo composites. Tensile properties were found to be maximum for 6 Wt.%, and impact strength was found to be maximum for 8 Wt.% TiO2 particles-filled composite. The highest flexural properties were found at a lower TiO2 fraction of 2 Wt.%. Adding TiO2 filler helped to reduce the water absorption rate. The studies related to the wear and friction behavior of the composite under dry and abrasive wear conditions reveal that TiO2 filler was beneficial in improving the wear performance of the composite. Originality/value This research paper attempts to include both TiO2 filler and bamboo fibers to develop a novel composite material. TiO2 micro and nanoparticles are promising filler materials; it helps to enhance the mechanical and tribological properties of the epoxy composites and in literature, there is not much work reported, where TiO2 is used as a filler material with bamboo fiber–reinforced epoxy composites.

Evaluation of three-component boron-free glass fiber/TiO2/polyimide nanocomposite properties prepared by 3D turbula dispersion and spark plasma sintering method

“…However, the homogenized/premixed powders (PI and BGF) were sintered at 320°C under an applied pressure of 30 MPa, heating rate of 10°C/min, and holding time of 9 min using a graphite die mould of 30 mm in diameter. 36 For the three-component BGF/TiO 2 /PI composite composition, which is also in accordance with Prabhu et al 42 work. The BGF particles were blended with TiO 2 nanoparticles, and the obtained premixed particles were dispersed/ introduced in the PI matrix structural network using the 3D turbula mixer prior to the sintering.…”

Modeling and analysis of TiO2 filler's impact on specific wear rate in flax fiber-reinforced epoxy composite under abrasive wear using Taguchi approach

“…A confirmation test validates analysis findings (Shonda and Jeffrey, 2013;Divya et al, 2021). The predictive equation can be used to determine the anticipated S/N ratio of SWR at the optimal control variable level (Sudheer et al, 2012;Ravikantha et al, 2023a, b). The predictive equation for optimum parameter A 3 , B 3 , C 2 and D 3 for SWR is given by Equation (1).…”

“…TiO 2 particles are added to the epoxy resin at 2, 4, 6 and 8 wt%, mixed with hardener in a 1:10 ratio. Ultrasonic probe sonication (PKS-250F) is used to prevent TiO 2 particle aggregation (Ravikantha et al, 2023a, b). Fiber mats (300 3 300 mm 2 ) are coated evenly with epoxy resin using a brush and hand roller, with layering repeated for the desired thickness.…”

“…It employs an orthogonal array for trials and utilizes ANOVA on the signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio to evaluate control variable contributions. Widely used in DOE, Taguchi's method is robust and provides established benefits in optimizing research outcomes, particularly in evaluating wear parameters in PMCs (Pereira et al, 2020;Ravikantha et al, 2023a, b;Ramkumar et al, 2022a, b).…”