Abstract
In this work, the development of sustainable banana fiber-epoxy composites reinforced with bio-waste derived calcium carbonate (CaCO3) from marine shells of Turbinella pyrum has been investigated. The purpose was to evaluate the combined effect of natural fibre reinforcement and inorganic filler loading on mechanical, thermal and environmental performance. NaOH treated banana fibres (30 wt%) were embedded in a bisphenol-A epoxy matrix with varying content of CaCO3 (0-20 wt%) and composites were prepared by hand lay-up followed by compression moulding. Mechanical results show that a moderate filler addition significantly improves the performance, with the composite with 10 wt% of CaCO3 (S10) showing the highest tensile strength (55 MPa) besides better flexural strength and impact resistance. These improvements are due to the better bonding at the fibre-matrix interface and uniform filler dispersion. The hardness increased with filler content due to matrix stiffening effect. FTIR results revealed improved stability and higher char residue for filled composites. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis indicated an increase in glass transition temperature at optimal filler loading. Water absorption test confirmed lower moisture absorption and biodegradation of S10 in comparison to control. SEM and SEM-EDX analysis showed a homogeneous filler distribution and strong interfacial interaction. The results were highly significant (p 3, which makes these composites suitable for lightweight sustainable applications.