An Investigation of Dielectric Properties of Chicken Feather Reinforced Epoxy Matrix Composite

The present investigation aims at developing a reinforced polymer composite to be used in electronic applications (for/as high-speed data transforming insulator material). Poultry feather reinforced composite is prepared varying the reinforcement of chicken feather fibrils (i.e., with 10%, 20%, and 30% weight fraction) using epoxy resin as matrix material. The dielectric properties of the composites are evaluated at different temperature and frequency ranges. It is found that the dielectric properties are dependent on operating frequency and temperature conditions. Such composites have potential use as a low dielectric material for typical applications. Flexural strength, microhardness, and density of this chicken feather composite are also evaluated. Microscopic observation of the feather is made with scanning electron microscope.