Optimizing the effect of heat treatment on the mechanical properties (tensile Strength and hardness) of Hyphaene Thebaica nut; A machine learning and Taguchi approach

The demand for innovative and sustainable biomaterials in healthcare and biotechnology has fueled the need for advancements in its engineering performance. However, the limited properties of biomaterials without the integration of synthetic reinforcements or supports pose a challenge. Consequently, there is a growing necessity for the development of full cycle eco-friendly materials. This study focuses on enhancing the mechanical properties of Doum palm nuts through heat treatment for engineering applications. The research employs the Taguchi optimization technique and genetic algorithms to determine the optimal combination of heating temperature and holding time, aiming to achieve the highest tensile strength and hardness. The results showcase the effectiveness of the proposed approach, revealing the optimal tensile strength of 7.32 MPa at a treatment temperature of 50 °C and a holding time of 120 min. Similarly, the optimum hardness of 60.3 Hv is attained at a heat treatment temperature of 100 °C and a holding time of 120 min. The study further investigates chemical changes through Fourier transform infrared analysis and optical micrographs. Regression models for tensile strength and hardness are developed, and the global optimum is found using a genetic algorithm solver. The findings of this study demonstrate significant and remarkable improvements in the mechanical properties of biomaterials, highlighting their potential for demanding engineering applications. The optimized heat treatment parameters provide a path towards enhanced biomaterials performance and offer promising avenues for the development of tougher and more resilient materials. This research contributes to the field of biomaterials engineering, paving the way for the design and production of eco-friendly materials with superior mechanical properties, thus addressing the ongoing demand for innovative and sustainable solutions in various industries.