Synergistic Effects of Paederia Foetida Fiber and Mahogany Fruit Husk Filler on the Mechanical, Thermal, Acoustic Performance of Polyester Biocomposites

Abstract Sustainable multifunctional composites are gaining popularity as a replacement for traditional synthetic materials. This study explores at how Paederia foetida fiber (PFs) reinforcement and mahogany Fruit Husk (MP) filler work together to improve the mechanical, thermal, acoustic, and morphological aspects of polyester-based composites. Tensile and flexural testing, sound absorption tests, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to characterize the composites made with various volume fractions. The results show a significant improvement in mechanical efficiency, with tensile strength increasing from 38.71 MPa to 63.2 MPa and elastic modulus increasing from 1573.43 MPa to 1892.31 MPa, as well as a drop in elongation from 3.81% to 2.25%, showing improved stiffness. Flexural strength and modulus also rose at around 105 MPa and 3.2 GPa, respectively. The composites effectively absorbed sound in the mid-to-high frequency range, reaching a maximum absorption coefficient of 0.539 at 4000 Hz. Thermal study revealed higher stability, with a highest degradation temperature of 402.47°C and char residue up to 5.72%. SEM examinations revealed enhanced interfacial bonding and fewer vacancies. These findings reveal a synergistic reinforcement process and emphasize the composites' potential for use in lightweight structural panels, vehicle interior components, building acoustic insulating material, and environmentally friendly sound-absorbing materials.