Development and Characterization of Epoxy-Based Polymeric Composite with Bio-particulates as Filler Material

The focus of this paper is to develop cheap and unconventional materials for both structural and non-structural applications using eco-friendly bio-wastes. The study used pistachio nutshells (normally disposed of as waste) for fabricating bio-particulate-based polymeric composites. In this investigation, epoxy is taken as matrix material and pistachio nutshells in the form of microparticles are used as filler material. Six different sets of composites with varying filler content up to a maximum of 30 wt% are fabricated by a hand lay-up method. The excellent compatibility and bonding between the matrix and filler material under investigation are confirmed by micrograph obtained from scanning electron microscopy and by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. Physical and mechanical properties are evaluated experimentally as per ASTM. Apart from that, a linear viscoelastic semi-solid model is reported here to understand the mechanical dynamic behaviour of the developed material. On the basis of several test result, the developed composite may find its potential application in light-duty structures efficiently.