Investigation into the Ballistic Performances of Sisal Fibre Reinforced Epoxy Resin-Zinc Oxide Nanocomposites

Nwaedozie J. M., Nwakama O. N., Umoru P. E., Babatunde O. A., Omale P. E., Sumaila A., Okaraga A. S.

Abstract


Epoxy resin-based nanocomposites have gained significant attention in ballistic applications due to their lightweight, high strength, and impact resistance. This study investigates the ballistic performance of epoxy resin-zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocomposites reinforced with sisal fibre. The nanocomposites were prepared by dispersing varying weight fractions of ZnO nanoparticles into the epoxy matrix supported sisal fibre, followed by curing under controlled conditions. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) was used to analyze the nanoparticles dispersion. Energy absorption capability was evaluated to understand the effect of ZnO reinforcement on the material. Ballistic tests were conducted using high-velocity impact simulations to assess the penetration resistance and failure mechanisms. The results demonstrated that the addition of ZnO nanoparticles enhances the ballistic performance of the epoxy resin reinforced with sisal fibre by geometrically increased its absorption energy from 46.64J to 238.88, 195.82, and 165.67J for the nanocomposites (E-ZnO1, E-ZnO3, and E-ZnO5) respectively. The findings suggest that Epoxy/ZnO nanocomposites supported with sisal fibre can be a promising material for lightweight armour applications, offering a balance between strength and flexibility.


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