Role of natural fiber morphology on impact resistance in copper-based nanocomposites

Title : Role of natural fiber morphology on impact resistance in copper-based nanocomposites

Abstract:

This paper discusses the synthesis and characterization of a copper–yam (Cu–Yam) peel nanocomposite, created as a sustainable, multifunctional material. Structural study confirmed a face-centered cubic (FCC) copper lattice contained in a fibrous yam-based organic matrix, loaded with functional groups and reinforcing oxides (CuO, SiO2, Al2O3). Nanoparticles were generally 3-8 nm, with occasional clusters of 29-31 nm, providing a bimodal distribution that improves interfacial bonding, surface reactivity, and structural complexity. FTIR showed functional groups that promote adhesion, stability, and electron transport, while EDS validated the hybrid composition of biomass and metallic oxides, contributing to thermal stability, antibacterial action, and mechanical robustness. The composite exhibited moisture-responsive electrical activity, with regression modeling of the V-I connection revealing a significant correlation (R2 = 99.79%) and confirming its humidity-sensing capability. Despite relatively low conductivity compared to Cu-cellulose nanopapers, the Cu-Yam composite exhibited significant mechanical performance, recording an impact energy of 29.67 J, statistically validated as extremely precise and equivalent to natural fiber–reinforced composites. These results highlight the material's potential for non-electrical applications, such as smart packaging, environmental sensing, and structural eco-materials. Beyond advancing green nanotechnology, the findings highlight the value of agro-waste in engineering high-performance, biodegradable composites while offering pathways to optimize nanoparticle dispersion and fiber-matrix adhesion for future applications in automotive, energy, and environmental sectors.

Biography:

Dr. Daniel Gyasi-Antwi is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences' Department of Applied Physics. He focuses on the synthesis, characterisation, and use of nanomaterials for technological and environmental issues as part of his Materials Science study. He has a PhD in Applied Chemistry, an M.Sc. in Materials Science from the University of Augsburg in Germany, and a B.Sc. in Physics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). The development of functional nanocomposites for water treatment and sustainable material applications is the main emphasis of Dr. Gyasi-Antwi's work.