Design and Development of Interlocked Coir Composite Coconut Fiber Composite Materials Using Vacuum Bagging method

Abstract

This study explores the design, fabrication, and characterization of coir fiber reinforced composites using CNSL modified epoxy resin. Composite variants interlocked untreated were fabricated using compression molding with a 1:1.25 epoxy-to-hardener ratio and 15-20% CNSL. Mechanical testing (tensile, flexural, impact), along with FTIR, TGA, and SEM analyses, evaluated structural and thermal properties. Results indicate that interlocked coir composites exhibited superior mechanical strength, while CNSL enhanced impact resistance and thermal stability. However, excessive mercerization reduced impact toughness. The findings highlight coir fiber composites as sustainable alternatives for automotive, aerospace, and construction applications. Future research can optimize biodegradability and fiber loading to enhance performance.