Influence of different particulate reinforcements on the mechanical properties of epoxy

In the current study, the mechanical and fracture characterization of different particulate-reinforced epoxy composites is carried out. Seashell particles, pistachio shell particles, and nanoclay are used as reinforcements for epoxy with varying wt.%. The composite specimens are prepared using a general casting technique. The tensile and flexural tests are conducted as per the ASTM standard. Adding 2 and 4 wt.% seashell particles and nanoclay improves epoxy resin’s tensile and flexural strengths by 6 to 16% and 5 to 13%, respectively. However, adding 2 wt.% pistachio shell particles improves the properties, and 4 wt.% pistachio shell particles decreases the properties. SEM analysis is carried out on the fracture surface to understand the failure mechanisms and the influence of different reinforcements on the fracture behavior of the composites. The current study’s findings offer insights into the suitability of each reinforcement type, bridging the knowledge gap regarding their individual effects on epoxy.