Analysis of the impact of SiO2 nanoparticles on the mechanical properties of JUCO fiber composites

This study explores the influence of SiO₂ nanoparticles on the mechanical and morphological performance of sustainable JUCO fiber-reinforced epoxy composites. Composites were fabricated using hand lay-up and cold pressing with varying nanoparticle concentrations. Mechanical testing, including tensile, flexural, and impact assessments, revealed that 2 wt% SiO₂ provided optimal performance, while higher loadings caused nanoparticle agglomeration and increased void formation, reducing mechanical properties. The composite with 2 wt% SiO₂ also showed minimal water absorption and dimensional change, indicating enhanced barrier behavior due to uniform nanoparticle dispersion. Morphological analyses using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed homogeneous nanoparticle integration and strong fiber–matrix interfacial bonding. Additionally, Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations successfully validated the experimental tensile and flexural responses, providing detailed insight into stress distribution and potential failure sites. These results demonstrate that the incorporation of SiO₂ nanoparticles effectively improves the durability, dimensional stability, and mechanical performance of JUCO fiber-based epoxy composites. This study highlights the potential of such sustainable composites for applications requiring lightweight, eco-friendly, and mechanically robust materials. The primary objective of this study is to enhance the durability and mechanical strength of sustainable JUCO fiber-based epoxy composites through the incorporation of SiO₂ nanoparticles.