Effect of hybrid filler loading (Polyalthia longifolia seed and graphite) on the mechanical and thermal properties of vinyl ester composites

This research paper focuses on the use of solid biomass waste, specifically a combination of Polyalthia longifolia seed (PLSF) and graphite (GH) powder, as reinforcements in vinyl ester (VE) composites. The composites were produced via the hand layup method, with the filler concentration varying from 0 to 15 wt% of PLSF and 0-9 wt% of graphite. The objective was to examine the influence of the hybrid filler on the mechanical characteristics of the composites. The mechanical properties of composites prepared from P. longifolia seeds and graphite powder were experimentally characterized. These properties included tensile strength, flexural strength, impact resistance, and hardness. The hybrid composite had a maximum tensile strength of 48.4 MPa, and its tensile modulus was 1.66 GPa. The hybrid filler at 15% wt% of PLSF and 6% of graphite has the highest flexural strength, which is around 148 MPa. The ultimate impact strength and hardness were measured to be 41.3 kJ/m(2) and 44.5, respectively, after the addition of 15 and 6 wt% of hybrid filler. In comparison to neat vinyl ester resin, the PLSF/GH-VE composites exhibited an increase in tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness of 2.69, 1.82, 3.03, and 1.59 times, respectively. Hybrid composite surfaces were analyzed using scanning electron microscopes to determine surface characteristics and fractured surfaces. In addition, the PLSF/GH-VE composites have been utilized in the production of components for four-wheelers. Highlights Investigated the impact of hybrid filler-reinforced vinyl ester composites. Mechanical and thermal properties were experimentally characterized. Surface characteristics and fractured surfaces were examined. PLSF/GH-VE composites are used in producing components for four-wheelers.