Effect of TiO2 addition on the properties of UPR-Donax Grandis fiber composite

The utilization of natural fibers in polymer composite has various applications including hemp, jute, sisal, kenaf, banana, and ramie. The inner sap has not yet been employed as a reinforcing fiber due to its distinct chemical makeup. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of titanium dioxide (TiO2) addition on the morphology and functional, and mechanical characteristics of unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) reinforced Donax Grandis inners sap fiber (DGISF) composites. UPR-DGISF-TiO2 composites were produced by blending and compression molding with varying DGISF compositions (20, 25, and 30wt%) with 1wt% TiO2. The result showed the composite with 25wt% DGISF exhibited superior tensile strength, bending strength, and hardness compared to the composites with 20wt% and 30wt% DGISF. The surface morphology revealed better and more uniform interfacial adhesion of DGISF in the UPR matrix. The chemical interaction between matrix and reinforcement was also confirmed by absorption spectra. The addition of TiO2 particles has a greater impact on improving the mechanical properties of composites with 25wt% DGISF. However, the composite with 20wt% DGISF was found to be more brittle even with added TiO2. The optimum content of DGISF was found to be 25wt%, and the addition of 1wt% TiO2 could improve the performance of the composite. By utilizing UPR, DGISF, and TiO2 in the right ratios, it is possible to achieve a remarkable improvement in the properties of the composite. This synergistic effect can significantly enhance the overall performance and effectiveness of the material.