Exploring the Environmental Implications and Mechanical Optimization of Kevlar/Waste-Based Piassava Fiber Nano-SiO2 Hybrid Composites: Toward Sustainable Material Solutions

This research describes the development of a new sustainable and high-performance hybrid polymer matrix composite (HPMC) that reduces ecological impact by adding waste-based piassava fiver as a key reinforcing, sustainable, and biodegradable material. The composite contains Kevlar and
waste based-piassava fibers in an epoxy matrix with nanosilicon dioxide particles (SiO2 NPs) to have the desired mechanical properties for uses in aerospace, railway cabins, structural frameworks, sports, medical equipment, and so on. Employing the hand lay-up method and compression moulding, six- layered composites were made with different stacking sequences (A to O type) and SiO2 nanoparticle content (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 wt.%). N-type stacking (KKPPKK) at 1.5 wt.% SiO2 NPs achieved the highest level of performance. The optimized composition produced impressive tensile strength
(336 MPa), and flexural strength (381 MPa). Further, M-type composites with 1 wt.% SiO2 NPs had the highest impact strength of 263 J/m. Among all the combinations, the N-type composites absorbed less water, with 8.96% absorption, making them more useful in wet conditions. By incorporating waste-based piassava fiber and optimal nano SiO2 filler, this research creates a new way to achieve lightweight,
durable, and environmentally responsible composite hybrid materials, positioning with the aims of sustainable engineering and waste valorization.