In the heart of Assam, India, at the Polymer Nanocomposites Synthesis and Application Laboratory (PNSAL) within Tezpur University, a groundbreaking study is unfolding, led by Jurita Baishya. The research, published in the Waste Management Bulletin, delves into the creation of sustainable materials, specifically focusing on the integration of nanoclay into coconut fiber reinforced modified vegetable oil composites. This innovative approach not only addresses environmental concerns but also paves the way for a more sustainable future in the energy sector.
The study, which investigates the effects of nanoclay on citric acid crosslinked waste coconut fiber reinforced modified vegetable oil composites, is a testament to the growing trend of utilizing eco-friendly substitutes for traditional polymers and plastics. By leveraging waste fibers and bio-based materials, industries can significantly lower their carbon footprints and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Baishya and her team have developed green composites from coconut fiber, an abundant and underutilized byproduct of the coconut industry. The composites are fabricated using a compression molding process, with Methacrylic Anhydride modified Epoxidized Linseed Soybean Oil (MAELSO) as the polymer matrix and Citric Acid (CA) as a naturally derived crosslinker. The incorporation of nanoclay at varying weight percentages (1, 3, and 5 wt%) has shown promising results in enhancing the mechanical properties, thermal stability, and flame retardancy of the composites.
The interaction between MAELSO, CF, CA, and nanoclay was meticulously analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) techniques were employed to investigate the delamination and dispersal of silicate layers, while Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) provided insights into the surface morphology.
The findings reveal that the nanoclay-filled composites exhibit superior mechanical properties, higher thermal stability, and enhanced flame retardancy compared to their nanoclay-free counterparts. Notably, composites loaded with 1 wt% of nanoclay demonstrated the least amount of water vapor absorption capacity, volumetric swelling, and the highest chemical resistance. “The significance of this study lies in that the resulting composites promote sustainability by utilizing waste, renewable resources and biodegradable materials,” Baishya explains. “This approach minimizes environmental impact while maintaining performance.”
The implications of this research are vast, particularly for the energy sector. As industries strive to adopt more sustainable practices, the development of these green composites offers a viable alternative to conventional, non-biodegradable synthetic materials. The improved mechanical strength, thermal stability, and flame retardancy of these composites make them suitable for a wide range of applications, from construction to household use. Their low water absorption and enhanced chemical resistance further support their suitability for humid environments, making them a valuable addition to the sustainable material innovation landscape.
As the world continues to grapple with environmental challenges, research like Baishya’s provides a beacon of hope. By harnessing the power of waste materials and innovative technologies, we can create a future where sustainability and performance go hand in hand. The study, published in the Waste Management Bulletin, serves as a reminder that the path to a greener future is paved with ingenuity and a commitment to environmental stewardship.
