dubi̇ted Duzce University Journal of Science and Technology 2148-2446 Duzce University 10.29130/dubited.1870760 Material Design and Behaviors Malzeme Tasarım ve Davranışları Fabrication and Characterization of Sugarcane Bagasse/Coconut Shell Particle-Reinforced Hybrid Polymer Biocomposites for Compostable Packaging Fabrication and Characterization of Sugarcane Bagasse/Coconut Shell Particle-Reinforced Hybrid Polymer Biocomposites for Compostable Packaging https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4787-5675 Durowaye Stephen Idowu University of Lagos https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5342-776X Ojo Olusola Emmanuel Federal Institute of Industrial Research 04 19 2026 14 2 629 640 01 24 2026 03 17 2026 Copyright © 2013, Duzce University Journal of Science and Technology 2013 Duzce University Journal of Science and Technology

Reinforcement of polymers with natural fillers has gained significant attention due to growing environmental concerns, the need for sustainability, and the limited viability of synthetic materials. This study addressed these challenges by developing and characterizing epoxy-based hybrid biocomposites reinforced with sugarcane bagasse and coconut shell particles. The biocomposites were fabricated using the stir casting method, and their microstructural, mechanical, and biodegradability properties were systematically evaluated. Experimental results revealed that the biocomposite containing 12 wt. % hybrid fillers exhibited optimal performance, with a 32.2 % increase in hardness (24.87 HV), a 12.3 % improvement in compressive strength (67.99 MPa), and a 4.1 % enhancement in impact energy (6.16 J) compared to the control sample. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis confirmed uniform filler dispersion and strong matrix–particle interfacial bonding. Biodegradability tests showed the highest weight loss of 18.5 % after seven months, indicating effective compostability. The synergistic reinforcement from sugarcane bagasse and coconut shell significantly enhanced both mechanical and environmental performance, demonstrating the composite’s potential for sustainable packaging applications.

Reinforcement of polymers with natural fillers has gained significant attention due to growing environmental concerns, the need for sustainability, and the limited viability of synthetic materials. This study addressed these challenges by developing and characterizing epoxy-based hybrid biocomposites reinforced with sugarcane bagasse and coconut shell particles. The biocomposites were fabricated using the stir casting method, and their microstructural, physical, mechanical, and biodegradability properties were systematically evaluated. Experimental results revealed that the biocomposite containing 12 wt. % hybrid fillers exhibited optimal performance, with a 32.2 % increase in hardness (24.87 HV), a 12.3 % improvement in compressive strength (67.99 MPa), and a 4.1 % enhancement in impact energy (6.16 J) compared to the control sample. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis confirmed uniform filler dispersion and strong matrix–particle interfacial bonding. Biodegradability tests showed the highest weight loss of 18.5 % after seven months, indicating effective compostability. The synergistic reinforcement from sugarcane bagasse and coconut shell significantly enhanced both mechanical and environmental performance, demonstrating the composite’s potential for sustainable packaging applications.

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