Homogenization technique-based prediction of elastic properties in pistachio shell powder-acrylic butadiene styrene (ABS) polymeric composites

The superior mechanical and physical properties of composite materials have attracted a lot of attention, surpassing those of their individual components. Recent studies have focused on creating eco-sustainable composites by adding natural reinforcing fillers, like agricultural waste, to polymer matrices. This study examines the elastic properties of a new composite material made of acrylic butadiene styrene (ABS) as the matrix and pistachio shell powder as reinforcement. The effective elastic characteristics of the material were predicted using a homogenization technique. Different volume fractions of pistachio shell powder (0, 1, 3, 5, 10, and15%) were used in Finite Element Analysis (FEA). The results were compared with those of traditional micromechanical models, such as Hobbs’ model and the Rule of Mixtures (ROM). According to the numerical analysis, while Poisson’s ratio was mostly same, Young’s Modulus and shear modulus significantly increased as the filler amount increased. Young’s Modulus rises by 19.77% with15% reinforcement, according to FEA data, which was in good agreement with Hobbs’ expectations. At increasing volume fractions, the ROM model over stated stiffness, where as FEA gave a more accurate approximation. The study highlight shows pistachio shell powder can be used as an efficient reinforcement for ABS composites, showing enhanced mechanical qualities while using less material. By offering a validated numerical framework for forecasting the elastic behavior of bio composite materials, this study aids in their optimization for structural applications.