ISSN print edition: 0366-6352 ISSN electronic edition: 1336-9075 Registr. No.: MK SR 9/7 Published monthly

Investigation of silicon nitride nanopowder derived from Cocos nucifera on the properties of Araceae fiber reinforced epoxy composites

R. Premkumar and K. Raju

Department of Mechanical Engineering, M. Kumarasamy College of Engineering, Thalavapalayam, Karur, India

E-mail: premkumar_kumar001@outlook.com

Received: 16 April 2026  Accepted: 1 June 2026

Abstract:

This study investigated the development of a sustainable hybrid epoxy composite reinforced with cellulose-rich Araceae stem fiber and biomass-derived silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) nanopowder. Both reinforcements were subjected to alkali–glycidyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (GPTMS) surface treatment to enhance interfacial bonding and dispersion within the matrix. The composites were fabricated using a hand lay-up technique, followed by post-curing, and evaluated for mechanical, tribological, thermal, and surface properties. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in performance with the incorporation of Si₃N₄ and surface modification. Tensile strength increased by 37.4%, while flexural strength improved by 49.4% compared to the untreated fiber-reinforced composite. Impact strength exhibited an enhancement of 53.9%, indicating improved energy absorption capability. Surface hardness increased by 19.1%, reflecting enhanced resistance to indentation. Furthermore, the specific wear rate decreased by 52.1%, accompanied by a reduction in the coefficient of friction, confirming improved tribological performance. Thermal stability also showed considerable improvement, with the initial degradation temperature increasing by 15.2% and residual char content rising by 66.5%, indicating enhanced thermal resistance. In addition, the water contact angle increased from 68° to 95°, demonstrating improved hydrophobicity and reduced moisture affinity. Overall, the synergistic effect of optimal Si₃N₄ loading and alkali–GPTMS treatment resulted in enhanced interfacial adhesion, uniform filler dispersion, and improved stress transfer mechanisms. These findings highlight the potential of the developed composite for lightweight structural and semi-structural applications requiring improved mechanical strength, wear resistance, and thermal stability.

Keywords: Silicon nitride; Alkali-GPTMS; Wear properties; Thermal stability; Stem fiber

Full paper is available at www.springerlink.com.

DOI: 10.1007/s11696-026-05141-5

Chemical Papers 80 (10) 12471–12483 (2026)