Impact of molybdenum disulfide diffused coir fiber on the physical, mechanical, thermal, and vibrational characteristics of polyester composites

Abstract This research focuses on comparing the properties of molybdenum disulfide (MoS ₂ ) diffused coir fiber polyester composites (MCF‐PCs) with neat coir fiber polyester composites (NCF‐PCs) and exploring its applications in various industrial sectors such as automotive, construction and manufacturing, where mechanical strength and fire resistance are critical factors. The study aims to investigate the physical, mechanical, thermal degradation, fire performance, and vibration properties of these composites. Compression molding was used to develop composites with different coir fiber loadings (10%, 20%, and 30% by weight). MoS ₂ nanoparticles diffused on the fiber surface significantly improved mechanical characteristics, thermal stability, and fiber‐matrix compatibility. The findings indicate better crystallinity and physical properties in MCF‐PCs compared to NCF‐PCs. Morphological observations confirmed improved fiber‐matrix compatibility in MoS ₂ ‐diffused fiber composites with polyester. The MCF‐PC with 20% loading exhibited the highest tensile (28 ± 1.24 MPa), flexural (50 ± 0.50 MPa), and impact (15 ± 1.01 kJ/m ² ) strength. The flame retardancy of the composites was evaluated using a horizontal combustion test apparatus. In addition, MCF‐PCs exhibited better flame retardancy as evidenced by lower flame propagation velocity (9 ± 0.20 mm/min) and increased ignition time (13 ± 0.29 Sec). The MCF‐PC with 20% loading shows maximum natural frequencies of 77 ± 4.1 Hz. Highlights This study investigated MoS ₂ ‐diffused coir fiber‐reinforced polyester composites. Fiber‐matrix adhesion can be improved with modified fiber‐reinforced composites. The MoS ₂ diffusion on fibers improved the physical and mechanical properties of polyester composites. The MoS ₂ diffusion on fibers enhanced the thermal and vibrational characteristics of polyester composites. MoS ₂ ‐diffused natural fiber composites offer considerable research potential.