Performance and Durability of Eco-Friendly Natural Fiber-Reinforced Composites with Sea Shell Powder

Synthetic composite materials such as aramid, carbon, and glass fibers are extensively used in engineering applications; however, their non-biodegradability, high cost, and environmental impact have led to increased interest in sustainable alternatives. The present study aims to develop an eco-friendly natural fiber reinforced composite using sisal fiber mat, seashell powder, and bird feather quill in an epoxy matrix. The primary objective is to utilize waste and natural materials to produce lightweight composites with improved mechanical properties. The composites were fabricated using epoxy resin (Araldite AW106) and hardener (HV953 IN) through a compression moulding process. A systematic experimental approach was adopted to study the influence of reinforcement composition on mechanical properties. Tensile, flexural, and hardness tests were conducted to evaluate the performance of the fabricated specimens. The results indicate that the addition of seashell powder enhances stiffness and hardness, while bird feather quill contributes to weight reduction with acceptable strength. An optimal combination of materials exhibited improved tensile and flexural properties compared to other compositions. The study concludes that the developed natural fiber composite can serve as a cost-effective, lightweight, and sustainable alternative to conventional synthetic composites for engineering applications.