The effect of nanomodified epoxy on the tensile and flexural properties of Napier fiber reinforced composites

The tensile, flexural, and morphological properties of Napier fiber reinforced nanomodified epoxy composites were investigated. Untreated and alkali‐treated Napier fibers, as well as nanoclay and epoxy resin, were used to fabricate Napier fiber reinforced nanomodified epoxy composites by using cold press compression machines. Napier fiber was treated with 5% dilute sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution for 6 h. Varying amounts of nanoclay filler (3, 5, and 10 wt%) were mixed with the epoxy resin prior to fabricating the Napier fiber reinforced nanomodified epoxy composites. The results of mechanical testing indicated that the alkali‐treated Napier fiber reinforced nanomodified epoxy composites incorporating 5 wt% nanoclay exhibited the highest flexural and tensile properties. Morphological analysis was then conducted to further analyze the fractured specimens following the mechanical tests. The scanning electron microscope images of the Napier fiber reinforced nanomodified epoxy composites that contained 5 wt% nanoclay revealed good interfacial bonding between the matrix and the reinforcement.