Epoxy resin composites reinforced with upcycled fabrics: Mechanical, thermal, and morphological analysis

Abstract

The mechanical, thermal, and morphological characteristics of epoxy resin composites reinforced using repurposed textiles are examined in this work. This study investigates reusing textile waste to produce composite materials using sustainable alternatives. This study shows how epoxy resin may be improved by mixing recycled materials with powdered coconut shells. 10% of the total weight, or the powdered coconut shell, was combined with fabric and epoxy resin in a 2:1 ratio with hardener. After the mixture was put into molds, it was given a 72‐h cure. Two samples were then ready to be tested for their mechanical, morphological, and thermal characteristics. Tensile, bending, impact, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) tests were used to evaluate performance. The force obtained in the tensile test was 1236.705 N, the bending test produced 86.76 N, and the impact test produced 3.33 J. The fabric and resin were found to have strong binding by SEM examination, and the TGA investigation indicated a notable heat absorption capability. The study offers insightful information on improving material performance through sustainable methods, which benefits the building, automobile, and aerospace sectors—industries where durability and environmental responsibility are critical.Highlights Used textiles enhance epoxy resin in composite materials. Tensile tests reveal structural integrity and longevity. Impact tests show resistance to dynamic loads. TGA and SEM analyses clarify thermal stability and bonding.