TENSILE, FLEXURAL, IMPACT, HARDNESS AND STRUCTURAL CHARACTERIZATION OF COIR FIBER/MAIZE HUSK HYBRID COMPOSITES FOR ELECTRICAL FITTINGS

Abstract

The need for high performance and sustainable polymer composites in the design of electrical materials for appliances has amplified the search for hybrid composites of natural fibers. The study aim was to evaluate the tensile, flexural, hardness, impact and structural properties of chemically treated hybrid composite of coir and maize fibers reinforced high-density polyethylene. Fabrication of the hybrid composite was performed using compression moulding technique. Impact, flexural, tensile and hardness test were carried out using ASTM D-156, ASTM D-790, ASTM D-638 and ASTM D2240 standards respectively. Mechanical testing demonstrated that the incorporation of CF and MHF significantly enhanced tensile strength, with the 7:3 blend of Coir/Maize husk composite achieving the highest tensile strength (27.27 MPa) and tensile modulus (300.00 MPa). SEM analysis revealed that fiber concentration plays a critical role in the composite microstructure, with lower filler concentrations with the 1:1 blend of Coir/Maize husk composite exhibiting improved homogeneity, while higher concentrations (e.g. 30% Maize husk composite, 3:7 blend of Coir/Maize husk composite) led to fiber agglomeration. These findings underscore the importance of treatment methods and filler concentration in tailoring CF/MH hybrid composites for diverse applications, particularly in industries such as automotive, electrical and construction, where optimal mechanical properties and characterization are crucial. Further research on the thermal stability of natural fiber reinforced hybrid composites in this study should be investigated for their potential use in electrical fittings.