Enhancing mechanical and wear properties of lightweight polymer composites using biochar from underutilized woody biomass

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of biochar derived from underutilized, invasive woody P. juliflora biomass as a sustainable reinforcement on the mechanical and tribological performance of epoxy composites. Biochar reinforced composites were produced with varying contents of biochar (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 wt%). The microhardness and shore D hardness increased from 62.5 to 89.9 HV and from 72 to 86, respectively. The maximum impact strength of 3.2 kJ/m ² was obtained at 10 wt% biochar, compared with 1.5 kJ/m ² for neat epoxy. The worn-out morphology by SEM analysis confirmed the formation of a stable tribo-layer and less surface damage, supporting the enhanced wear behavior with addition of biochar content. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of P. juliflora biochar as a sustainable and cost-effective reinforcement for improving the mechanical and wear performance of epoxy composites, while also providing a useful route for utilizing invasive biomass.