Dielectric behavior of bio-waste reinforced polymer composites

Abstract

A dielectric is an electrical insulator that may be polarized by the action of an applied electric field. When a dielectric is placed in an electric field, electric charges do not flow through the material, as in a conductor, but only slightly shift from their average equilibrium positions causing dielectric polarization. The present work is focused on analyzing the effect of the chemical treatment of coir dust fibers on the dielectric properties of epoxy polymer matrix composites. Coir dust is a spongy, peat-like residue obtained from the processing of coconut husk for coir fiber. A novel low-cost polymer composite using coir dust reinforcement is prepared. Investigation of dielectric behavior of this polymer composite proves its efficiency as a high-value marketable product. As the composite is made using bio-materials from local resources, its cost is less as compared to other polymer composites available today.