Investigation of TiO₂ Nano Filler in Mechanical, Thermal Behaviour of Sisal/Jute Fiber Reinforced Interpenetrating Polymer Network (IPN) Composites

In this work, various proportionate (0%, 1%, 3% 5% & 7%) of titanium di-oxide nano-filler was utilized as particulate matter along with the sisal/jute fiber reinforcement, in the view to increase the physical properties of the composite materials. Beside, as matrix material the mixture of Epoxy (E) and Polyurethane (PE) was chosen with the proportionate of 70 and 30 wt.% respectively, in order to extract the specific qualities of both the matrices to achieve the interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs). Moreover, to exactly find out the thermo-mechanical characteristics of the sisal/jute fiber reinforced IPN composites, tests like thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA), tensile, flexural, Impact, short beam strength and water absorption tests were carried out as per standards. It was found that, incorporation of 5% of TiO₂, increases the mechanical properties such as tensile, flexural, impact and short beam strength. Similarly, incorporation of TiO₂ into IPN matrix enhances the thermal stability and water absorption resistance. All the obtained values of various filler weight % of TiO₂ were compared with each other against with and without particulate incorporated IPN laminate in the purpose of using the same in construction industries.

Keywords:
Epoxy; polyurethane; TiO₂; thermo-gravimetric analysis; mechanical properties