Analysis and Optimization of Mechanical Properties of Coconut Shell Cellulose Reinforced Polymeric Composite for Industrial Gasket Application

This study explores the development and optimization of an environmentally friendly gasket using coconut shell cellulose as the filler with bisphenol‐A–based epoxy as the matrix. The coconut shell powder was chemically treated with an optimal concentration of 13.44% NaOH solution at 90°C to extract the cellulose from the coconut shell powder and to improve the bonding between the matrix and the filler by removing the hemicellulose and lignin content from the coconut shell powder. The interaction effects of filler content (50%–70%), particle size (250–500 μm), and post‐curing temperature (60°C–80°C) on the mechanical properties of the developed composite material were investigated through the Box–Behnken Design (BBD) method. The results of the statistical analysis indicated that particle size and filler content are the most prominent parameters that impact the structural integrity of the composite. The results of the multi‐objective optimization analysis indicated that the optimal composition of the composite is 65% filler content, 250 μm particle size, and a post‐curing temperature of 70°C. The results of the analysis indicated that the optimized composite sample has an ultimate tensile strength of 5.1195 MPa, a high compressive strength of 138.50 MPa, and a flexural modulus of 51.20 MPa. The results also indicated that the composite has a high dimensional stability with low water and oil absorption rates, as well as thermal stability up to 200°C. The results of the analysis verified that the composite is a feasible and high‐performance substitute for the cooling system gasket materials, like water pumps, and is in accordance with the principles of the circular economy, which converts agricultural waste into value‐added functional materials.