Sustainable Epoxy Composites Reinforced with Water Hyacinth Powder: Effects on Mechanical Properties

Abstract:

This study examines the mechanical properties of epoxy composites reinforced with water hyacinth powder, aiming to utilize aquatic biomass waste as a sustainable reinforcement material. Water hyacinth powder with a particle size of 250–425 µm was incorporated into the epoxy matrix at 5, 10, 15, and 20 vol%. The composites were fabricated through casting, followed by room-temperature curing and post-curing at elevated temperatures. Mechanical tests, including tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness measurements, were conducted according to relevant ASTM standards. The results showed that low filler contents, particularly 5–10 vol%, enhanced tensile strength, tensile modulus, and hardness due to improved stress transfer and matrix stiffening. However, flexural strength and impact resistance decreased as filler loading increased, mainly due to particle agglomeration and interfacial defects. Overall, the findings indicate that water hyacinth powder is a promising reinforcement at moderate contents, offering potential for lightweight, non-structural composite applications while supporting sustainable material development.

• Periodical: Key Engineering Materials (Volume 1059)
• Pages: 113-119
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-bf3Xea
• Online since: June 2026
• Authors: Naruemon Sumrith, Chakaphan Ngaowthong*
• Keywords: Epoxy Composite, Mechanical Properties, Natural Fiber Reinforcement, Water Hyacinth Powder

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