Hybrid Reinforcement Effects of Water Hyacinth Fibers and Powder on the Mechanical Properties of Epoxy-Based Composites

Abstract:

This study investigates the mechanical behavior of epoxy composites reinforced with hybrid water hyacinth fibers and powder to develop sustainable epoxy-based hybrid composites. Epoxy resin (YD-535) and hardener (TH-7255) were mixed at a 100:35 weight ratio. Water hyacinth fibers were incorporated at a fixed 5 vol%, while powder with particle sizes of 250–425 µm was added at 5, 10, 15, and 20 vol%. The composites were fabricated using the casting method and evaluated according to ASTM standards for tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness properties. The results reveal that tensile strength peaked at 10PF, while all powder-reinforced samples exhibited higher tensile modulus than the fiber-only composite. Flexural modulus increased significantly at 5PF and 10PF, demonstrating the stiffening effect of particulate fillers. Impact strength decreased at lower powder contents but improved at 10PF. Hardness increased progressively with powder loading, with 20PF achieving the highest value. These findings highlight the effectiveness of hybrid reinforcement in enhancing the mechanical performance of epoxy composites.

• Periodical: Key Engineering Materials (Volume 1059)
• Pages: 95-100
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-Ai7z5K
• Online since: June 2026
• Authors: Khampon Pansod, Naruemon Sumrith, Jittimon Wongsa*
• Keywords: Biobased Fillers, Epoxy Resin, Hybrid Composites, Natural Reinforcement

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