Investigation of the dielectric properties and mechanical stability of lignocellulosic biomass based electrical insulation material for high voltage applications

Abstract

In this study, the electrical properties of banana leaf fibre-reinforced epoxy resin composites such as dielectric properties, dielectric constant, dissipation factor, and loss factor are tested at various frequencies and temperatures. At frequencies ranging from 1 to 10 kHz and temperatures ranging from 30 to 150o C, the dielectric properties of several composites containing banana leaf fibre are studied. The composite dielectric properties is gradually increased with temperature and decreased with frequency. Correspondingly, the mechanical tests involving a banana leaf fibre epoxy composite are conducted for tensile, bending, impact, and water absorption. The banana leaf fibre has been treated with a 5% sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution to increase its dielectric and mechanical strength. According to this study, the mechanical strength of bio composites containing up to 60% TBLFE is greater than that of pure epoxy. A thermo gravimetric investigation of composites reinforced with banana fibres has revealed remarkable thermal stability up to 220o C. In a composite made from chemically treated banana fibre pressboard, there is a good bond between the fibres and the matrix. The FESEM surface analysis shows that treated banana leaf fibril insulation boards have a better texture than composites that have not been treated.