Optimizing dielectric constants of epoxy composites infused with Palmyra palm and nano fillers using response surface methodology

Abstract

The study focuses on Palm fruit Fibers (PF) extracted from the palmyra palm tree (Borassus flabellifer) treated with 5 % alkali solution (NaOH). This treatment eliminates impurities from the fiber surface and enhances bonding with the epoxy matrix. Epoxy composites, reinforced with PF/nanofillers (h-BN, Al₂O₃ and MWCNT), are developed by using the box Behnken method (BBD) and dielectric constant is investigated under high-frequency and electrical field conditions. Dielectric constants (K) of the nanocomposites are determined using various capacitor terminal setups. The electrical properties of the Epoxy/PF nanocomposite, based on fiber content (Wt. %), fiber mesh size (μm) and nanofillers are evaluated using response surface methodology (RSM). Models, predicting nanocomposite dielectric constants, are established, fitting experimental values closely with R² nearing 1 and residuals adhering to a normal probability plot. The optimized dielectric constant of 1.05 is achieved at 3 wt% palm fiber content, 150 μm fiber mesh size and 1 wt% nano h-BN.