Fabrication and Characterization of Sugarcane Bagasse/Coconut Shell Particle-Reinforced Hybrid Polymer Biocomposites for Compostable Packaging

Year 2026, Volume: 14 Issue: 2 , 629 - 640 , 19.04.2026

Stephen Idowu Durowaye , Olusola Emmanuel Ojo

https://doi.org/10.29130/dubited.1870760

https://izlik.org/JA34DW39ST

Abstract

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.

Keywords

Sugarcane bagasse , Coconut shell , Hybrid polymer biocomposites , Mechanical properties , Biodegradability

Ethical Statement

This study does not involve human or animal participants. All procedures followed scientific and ethical principles, and all referenced studies were appropriately cited.

Supporting Institution

This research received financial support from the Central Research Committee (CRC) of the University of Lagos, Nigeria, under Grant No. CRC-2025/014.

Thanks

This research received financial support from the Central Research Committee (CRC) of the University of Lagos, Nigeria, under Grant No. CRC-2025/014. The authors gratefully acknowledge this support, which was instrumental to the successful execution of the study. The authors also thank Mr. Jelili Tiamiyu of the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, University of Lagos, for his invaluable assistance with logistics.

Fabrication and Characterization of Sugarcane Bagasse/Coconut Shell Particle-Reinforced Hybrid Polymer Biocomposites for Compostable Packaging

https://izlik.org/JA34DW39ST

Abstract

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.

Keywords

Sugarcane bagasse , Coconut shell , Hybrid polymer biocomposites , Mechanical properties , Biodegradability

Ethical Statement

This study does not involve human or animal participants. All procedures followed scientific and ethical principles, and all referenced studies were appropriately cited.

Supporting Institution

This research received financial support from the Central Research Committee (CRC) of the University of Lagos, Nigeria, under Grant No. CRC-2025/014. The authors gratefully acknowledge this support, which was instrumental to the successful execution of the study. The authors also thank Mr. Jelili Tiamiyu of the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, University of Lagos, for his invaluable assistance with logistics.

Thanks

This research received financial support from the Central Research Committee (CRC) of the University of Lagos, Nigeria, under Grant No. CRC-2025/014. The authors gratefully acknowledge this support, which was instrumental to the successful execution of the study. The authors also thank Mr. Jelili Tiamiyu of the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, University of Lagos, for his invaluable assistance with logistics.

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