Investigating the mechanical behavior and microstructural properties of sustainable aluminum matrix composites reinforced with biodegradable coconut shell ash nanoparticles

Abstract

Aluminum's natural weaknesses, such as low strength, can be overcome by adding Coconut Shell Ash (CSA) particles, which enhance the composite's strength and toughness. CSA is a sustainable, eco-friendly, and locally available material that was studied for its potential to reinforce aluminum in automotive interior applications. The research aimed to determine the mechanical and microstructural properties of CSA-reinforced aluminum composites. The study used coconut shells, aluminum waste, and a mold to create composites with varying CSA content (0-16%). Thus, the mechanical properties increased with increasing CSA content. Notably, the results showed that the Al+12% CSA composite exhibited superior tensile strength (254 MPa), while Al+16% CSA impact strength (13.6 J) and hardness (67 BHN) were superior compared to the control and other composite samples. However, the Al+12% CSA composite displayed a uniform CSA distribution with minimal void, agglomeration and defects. Overall, the Al+12% CSA composite demonstrated significant improvements in mechanical properties, making it a promising material for high strength applications purposes.