Characterization and microwave absorption behavior of hybrid teak wood/water hyacinth/cocopeat reinforced polyester composite

Incorporating natural fiber into the composite would create an environmentally friendly material. In the present study, a composite was made using natural fiber (water hyacinth/teak wood/cocopeat) and polyester. IR spectrum, surface morphology, and thermal behavior were investigated using FTIR, SEM-EDS, and STA apparatus, respectively. Various mechanical properties were also investigated at room temperature, such as hardness, wear, and tensile strength. In addition, dielectric and magnetic properties were also investigated using a VNA in the frequency range of 8 to 12 GHz. Different bands in the composites and filler group samples are clearly seen, indicating that the composite was successfully synthesized. The surface morphology of the samples does not show cracking, with the majority of carbon elements. Thermal degradation of the various samples shows three-stage decomposition: drying, primary degradation, and char formation. Better mechanical properties are seen in composite A with a composition of 50% resin, 10 % teak wood, and 40 % cocopeat. All samples have a broadband absorption of more than -10 dB, indicating an excellent microwave-absorbing material.