Evaluation of Mechanical and TGA properties: neem seed particles impregnated polymer matrix composite

• Published in: NeuroQuantology Vol. 20; no. 16; p. 3888
• Main Authors: Shivakumar, N, Srinivasan, P, Pandiaraj, V, Manikandan, S P, Srividhya, P K
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bornova Izmir NeuroQuantology 01.01.2022
• Subjects: Composite structures; Impact strength; Mechanical properties; Mechanical tests; Molding machines; Particulate composites; Polyester resins; Polymer matrix composites; Polymers; Pressure molding; Seeds; Thermodynamic properties; Thermogravimetry
• ISSN: 1303-5150
• DOI: 10.48047/NQ.2022.20.16.NQ880393

This research article deals with the fabrication of Polymer matrix composite impregnated with neem seed particles by compression moulding technique. This technique is the one widely used by researchers for fabrication of composite plates and testing. This study was focused on the analysis of mechanical behaviour of neem seed particle reinforced polymer composite and the Thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) of the same. Before the fabrication process high quality neem fruits were chosen and the dried seeds are powdered and the particles sizes are filter between 90 – 150 µm. 25 wt% of neem seed particles were mixed with the unsaturated polyester resin and fabricated in compression moulding machine. Then the neem seed impregnated composite plate was subjected to mechanical testing such as tensile, flexural and impact strength and the composite plate proved to exhibit the values of 12.3 MPa, 24.8 MPa and 11.896kJ/m2 respectively. A healthy internal bonding between the seed particles and the resin was found.After all these processes the composite specimen was subjected to Thermogravimetry Analysis (TGA) and Differential Scanning calorimetric analysis (DSC) to find the thermal behaviour of the composite plate or the ability of the composite plate to withstand hot temperature is found. This result proved that the composite can withstand a peak temperature of around 310 °C and the full degradation of the composite is found around 400 °C. This research article on carrying out research on the study of neem seed particle reinforced polymer matrix composite proved that there is novel approach in finding new eco-friendly products for suitable application from the natural waste and revenue generation for the farmers.