Optimization of the Mechanical Properties of Epoxy–Palm Fiber Composites Using a Simplex Experimental Design

Authors

  • Ali Rakrouk

    Laboratory of Mechanical and Agro-Industrial Engineering, Medjez El Bab Higher School of Engineering, University of Jendouba, Jendouba 8189, Tunisia
  • Ltaief Lammari

    Laboratory of Mechanical and Agro-Industrial Engineering, Medjez El Bab Higher School of Engineering, University of Jendouba, Jendouba 8189, Tunisia
  • Ikram Issami

    Doctoral School of Engineering Sciences and Technology, National Engineering School of Tunis (ENIT), University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1002, Tunisia
  • Sana Ben Khlifa

    Laboratory of Mechanical and Agro-Industrial Engineering, Medjez El Bab Higher School of Engineering, University of Jendouba, Jendouba 8189, Tunisia
  • Khaled El Moueddeb

    Laboratory of Mechanical and Agro-Industrial Engineering, Medjez El Bab Higher School of Engineering, University of Jendouba, Jendouba 8189, Tunisia
  • Rachi Nasri

    Doctoral School of Engineering Sciences and Technology, National Engineering School of Tunis (ENIT), University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1002, Tunisia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30564/jbms.v8i3.13431
Received: 20 April 2026 | Revised: 7 May 2026 | Accepted: 29 June 2026 | Published Online: 17 July 2026

Abstract

This article presents a study on the development of environmentally friendly materials. In the current context of environmental preservation, facing climate change and the search for material solutions, the development of ecological materials has become essential. Composites reinforced with natural fibers offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials. Among these fibers, palm fibers stand out for their low cost, lightness, and abundance. Derived from agricultural waste, they contribute to the valorization of local resources while reducing environmental impact. Their use promotes the development of high-performance and ecological composites. The objective of this study was to develop epoxy matrix composites reinforced with palm fibers. A simplex experimental design was used to vary the fiber concentration from 5% to 20%, while maintaining a constant resin/hardener ratio. The physical and mechanical properties were evaluated by tensile tests, viscosity analysis, and density measurements. The results indicate a continuous improvement in stiffness, with the Young's modulus increasing from 2 GPa to 3.67 GPa when the fiber content reached 20%. Tensile strength reached a maximum value of 62 MPa at a fiber content of 15%, before decreasing, suggesting an optimal concentration. This study confirms that palm fibers can serve as durable and effective reinforcements for optimized composite designs.

Keywords:

Epoxy Composite; Palm Fiber; Simplex Experimental Design; Mechanical Properties; Young's Modulus; Tensile Strength

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How to Cite

Rakrouk, A., Lammari, L., Issami, I., Khlifa, S. B., El Moueddeb, K., & Nasri, R. (2026). Optimization of the Mechanical Properties of Epoxy–Palm Fiber Composites Using a Simplex Experimental Design. Journal of Building Material Science, 8(3), 37–47. https://doi.org/10.30564/jbms.v8i3.13431

Issue

Vol. 8, Iss. 3 (September 2026): In Progress

Article Type

Article

License

Copyright © 2026 Ali Rakrouk, Ltaief Lammari, Ikram Issami, Sana Ben Khlifa, Khaled El Moueddeb, Rachi Nasri

Creative Commons License

This is an open access article under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0) License.

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