Development of MUF-bonded Banyan Fiber Laminates Reinforced with Bio-synthesized CeO₂ Nanoparticles for Advanced Applications
J. Environ. Nanotechnol., Volume 15, No 2 (June 2026) pp. 554-562
Abstract
Research and innovation in natural fiber-reinforced composites have gained considerable interest due to the increasing demand for sustainable materials in automotive, construction, defense, aviation, and marine industries. Fiber lamination has become an effective reinforcement method for developing structural composites with thermosetting polymers. In this study, eco-friendly cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO₂ NPs) were synthesized through a green in-situ method using peepal leaves (Ficus religiosa) as reducing and stabilizing agents. The synthesized nanoparticles were deposited on banyan (Ficus benghalensis) aerial root fiber textiles using precursor concentrations of 1, 2, and 3 mM. The treated and untreated fiber textiles were bonded using melamine-urea-formaldehyde (MUF) resin to fabricate laminated nanocomposite panels. ICP-OES analysis confirmed CeO₂ nanoparticle concentrations of up to 52 mg L⁻¹ on treated fibers. The synthesized composites were characterized using SEM, FTIR, TGA/DTG, and mechanical testing. Physical properties such as water absorption (2.63 ± 0.19%), moisture content, and thickness swelling were also evaluated. Mechanical analysis revealed improved composite performance, with tensile strength increasing from 6.2 MPa for the control sample to 8.4 MPa for the 2 mM CeO₂-treated composite, while flexural strength reached 18.9 MPa. Thermal degradation mainly occurred between 398 and 405°C, and nanoparticle incorporation slightly enhanced thermal stability. Colorimetric analysis showed a decrease in L values from approximately 76% to 53%, confirming effective nanoparticle deposition. Overall, CeO₂ nanoparticles significantly enhanced the mechanical, thermal, and functional performance of banyan fiber laminated composites for sustainable structural applications
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