Papers by Keyword: Tensile Strength

Abstract: Bioplastics or biopolymers are being developed as an alternative to tackle the problem of polymer waste, which causes pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Cellulose derived from corn cobs can be a biopolymer alternative to synthetic polymers. Cellulose derived from corn cobs can replace conventional petroleum-based polymers as an alternative plastic material. Incorporating ZnO into the biopolymer matrix is projected to result in favourable characteristics and allow for a wider range of applications. This study aims to investigate the changes in the characteristics of bioplastics derived from corn cob waste and starch upon the incorporation of ZnO, with a special emphasis on mechanical properties and electrical conductivity. FTIR analysis shows that the incorporation of ZnO exhibited no impact on the structure of the bioplastic. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that the ZnO microparticles' morphology is irregular and rough. The average size of ZnO particles incorporated into the biopolymer matrix was 0.623 μm. Mechanical tests showed a positive correlation between the amount of ZnO and the tensile strength of bioplastics. The assessment of the electrical conductivity of the Bioplastic/ZnO composite indicates a notable enhancement with the inclusion of ZnO. Electrical conductivity shows a progressive increase from 2.13x10^-15 S/m to 3.23x10^-12 S/m, 7.42x10^-11 S/m, and 2.03x10^-10 S/m with the incorporation of ZnO as much as 0.03, 0.06, and 0.09 g, respectively. Generally, incorporating ZnO into bioplastics can enhance their tensile strength and electrical conductivity.

Abstract: ’This study investigates the mechanical performance of concrete reinforced with recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers obtained from discarded plastic bottles, aiming to promote sustainable waste reuse in construction materials. Previous studies on PET fiber reinforced concrete have mainly examined the influence of fiber length and content separately, without considering their combined effects on mechanical properties. In this work, the interactions between fiber length, volume fraction, and mechanical behavior were systematically analyzed using a Central Composite Design (CCD) within the framework of Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Concrete incorporating recycled PET fibers was evaluated at three volume fractions (0.3%, 0.8%, and 1.3%) and three lengths (20 mm, 40 mm, and 60 mm), while maintaining a constant water-to-cement ratio. Sixty specimens were tested to assess both fresh and hardened properties. The greatest loss of workability occurred for the mix containing 1.3% fibers with a length of 60 mm, corresponding to about a 25% reduction compared with the control. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on a Central Composite Design (CCD) identified 0.3% fiber content and 40 mm length as the optimal combination, representing the mix that simultaneously maximized both compressive (26 MPa) and tensile strengths (3 MPa) according to the predictive model.

Abstract: The influence of filler type and content on the wettability and interfacial bonding between thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and polypropylene (PP) by using the injection overmolding process was investigated in this study. Calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) and talcum (Talc) masterbatchs, ranging from 0 to 40 percent by weight (wt%), were mixed into the PP matrix as fillers. The bond strength of TPE overmolded onto PP composites was characterized by the tensile and tear tests. Good compatibility was observed between TPE and PP filled with various amounts of CaCO₃ and Talc. In the case of the tensile test, the crack initiation stress, ultimate tensile strength, strain at break, and bond energy were found to decrease with increasing filler content. The results obtained from the tear test indicated that the propagation strength, ultimate tear strength, strain at break, and bond energy of injection overmolded TPE-PP filled with various CaCO₃ contents did not significantly change compared to those obtained from Talc. This can be attributed to the high reinforcing efficiency of Talc in comparison with CaCO₃, which can enhance the stiffness and thermal resistance of the PP matrix. As a result, the contact area becomes more resistant to molecular diffusion of TPE chains, particularly at high Talc loadings (30 and 40 wt%), leading to the reduction of interfacial bonding.

Abstract: This study investigates the mechanical degradation of nylon 6,6 under tensile stress, induced by accelerated aging via ultraviolet (UV) radiation [1-3]. Specimens were fabricated and exposed to controlled UV doses, simulating outdoor weathering conditions. Tensile properties were evaluated, revealing a significant reduction in tensile strength and elongation at break with increasing UV dose. The predominant degradation mechanism was photo-oxidation, evidenced by polymer chain scission and the formation of functional groups altering the material's molecular structure[4,5]. Specimen surfaces exhibited cracks and fissures, contributing to mechanical strength loss. These findings are critical for nylon 6,6 applications in telecommunications and energy industries, where UV exposure is unavoidable. Understanding this degradation is essential for optimizing the durability and reliability of critical infrastructure. This study lays the foundation for developing advanced protective materials and coatings, enhancing the safety and efficiency of outdoor systems.

Abstract: This study investigates the effects of fiber type and hybridization on the tensile properties of epoxy composites produced using the temperature-controlled vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTIM) method. Tensile strengths and fracture behaviors are examined by fabricating 6-layer glass fiber-reinforced composites [G6], 6-layers carbon fiber-reinforced composites [C6], and hybrid composites consisting of six layers of glass and carbon fibers [H1] and [H2]. The microstructures of the composites are analyzed using an optical microscope, and tensile tests are conducted in accordance with ASTM standards. Tensile tests are performed at a constant speed and room temperature, and the fracture surfaces after tensile testing are analyzed using a Stereo Microscope. The results showed that the highest tensile strength is achieved in the carbon fiber-reinforced composite (CFRP), with an increase of approximately 123% compare to the glass fiber-reinforced composite (GFRP). Hybrid composite exhibits the reduced tensile strength compare to CFRP, with decreases of 23% for H2 and 29% for H1, respectively, whereas, increased the fracture toughness of the tested samples. Additionally, fracture surface analysis reveals that GFRP exhibits incomplete separation of the fractured surfaces, while CFRP shows a brittle and clean fracture surface. This study highlights the significant impact of fiber type and hybridization on the tensile property and fracture behavior of epoxy composite, demonstrating the better tensile performance of CFRP, while improving the fracture toughness and manufacturing cost of both GFRP and Hybrid composite.

Abstract: This study focused on the valorization of swelling clay from Damniadio. This swelling clay is extracted during construction and dumped in the wild. The aim of this study was to valorize this clay in construction in order to produce bricks strong enough to be used in construction. The physical properties of this clay were evaluated, as well as the mechanical performance of the bricks produced. Finally, a model of a building component was produced using Autocad and Graitec OMD software. Compressive strength and tensile strength values ranged from 1.82 MPa to 30.24 MPa and from 0.14 MPa to 1.83 MPa respectively for raw earth bricks, and from 2.31 MPa to 40.6 MPa and from 0.15 MPa to 2.29 MPa respectively for kiln-dried earth bricks. The modelling of these bricks has thus shown their potential for use as load-bearing structures, making them both more environmentally friendly and more economical in a context where the purchase of concrete will be more expensive than the extraction and processing of clay.

Abstract: Single-lap bonded joints are widely used in aerospace, shipbuilding, and other fields due to their advantages, such as light weight, high specific strength, and no stress concentration caused by hole-making or spot-welding. However, the traditional methods of increasing geometric parameters, such as lap length to improve strength, have limitations in scenarios where the bonding area is restricted. To solve this problem, in this study, it is assumed that carbon fibers with a volume fraction of 10% were introduced into the epoxy adhesive layer and arranged in a 45° orientation. The mechanical non-reciprocity was achieved by utilizing the difference in tensile and compressive moduli. A non-reciprocal cohesive fracture mechanics model of the composite single-lap joint structure based on the User-defined Element (UEL) was established to explore the effect of non-reciprocity on the bonding strength. The results show that the non-reciprocal adhesive layer effectively suppresses the peeling stress concentration at the cohesive failure interface of the adhesive layer, increasing the tensile strength of the single-lap bonded joint by approximately 6.27% compared to the traditional homogeneous adhesive layer, verifying the effectiveness of the model. This research breaks through the limitations of traditional geometric parameter optimization. It can specifically regulate the interfacial stress distribution without changing the bonding area, providing a new material design idea for strength optimization in scenarios where the bonding area is restricted, such as in aerospace. It has important theoretical significance and engineering application prospects.

Abstract: Mg-Al-Zn alloy, an Mg alloy having Al and Zn as the major constituents, is exceptionally lightweight and has potential to become an essential component of modern engineering applications and healthcare systems. This paper presents valuable insights to the friction stir processing (FSP) applied to Mg-Al-Zn alloy in dry conditions. FSP induced extreme plastic deformation in the metal alloy which causes substantial microstructural alterations. These changes were investigated using optical microscope. Microstructural evaluation of FSP-processed zone indicated that average grain diameter of the FSP-processed zone increased in proportion to tool rotating speed. This is attributed to the frictional zone's degree of plastic deformation. In alignment with results obtained from optical microscopy, morphological study conducted using scanning electron microscope (SEM) also demonstrated the synthesis of refined grains. In addition, the study includes evaluation of the FSP-processed alloy's micro-hardness and tensile characteristics in contrast to the base (unprocessed) alloy.

Abstract: The aim of this research seeks to investigate the mechanical properties of Borassus flabellifer (Borassus palm) and Carica papaya (papaya) hybrid composites fibers reinforced in regards to strength, stiffness, and toughness under different test conditions. It also compares the performance of hybrid composites with composites based on individual fibers. The study involves two groups of composite materials. Group 1. The analysis of ultimate tensile strength of Borassus palm and Carica papaya composite value is 17.020 N/mm². Group 2. The analysis of impact strength of Borassus palm and Carica papaya composite value is 0.35. The hybrid composites, made from Borassus palm and papaya fibers are have very good Tensile and impact strength. That can be an alternative to synthetic fibers. In this study it observed that the hybrid composites, made from Borassus palm and papaya fibers are very suitable for mechanical applications.

Abstract: Natural fibre composites are gaining importance in engineering and automotive sectors due to their sustainability, lightweight nature, and cost-effectiveness. However, their flexural modulus and other mechanical properties require enhancement to meet industrial standards. This study aims to improve the performance of hybrid composites reinforced with hemp, jute, and coir fibres in an epoxy matrix. Specimens were fabricated using the hand lay-up technique followed by compression moulding and tested according to ASTM standards. Mechanical characterization included hardness, tensile, flexural, compressive, and impact tests, along with water absorption analysis. The results demonstrated significant improvements, with maximum hardness of 80 HRM, tensile strength of 16.95 N/mm², compressive strength of 5.268 N/mm², flexural strength of 95.96 N/mm², and impact resistance of 0.20 J. Water absorption varied between 11.6% and 25%, depending on resin-to-fibre ratios. One-way ANOVA confirmed statistically significant differences among formulations (p = 0.005), validating the effect of fibre–resin composition. The optimal formulation (75% epoxy with balanced fibre reinforcement) achieved superior mechanical performance, establishing hybrid natural fibre composites as a promising eco-friendly alternative to conventional materials.