What question did this study set out to answer?

To assess how different resin compositions influence the mechanical and thermal properties of jute–mesquite gum plaster of paris composites.

February 11, 2026

Influence of resin composition on quasi-static indentation, thermal stability, and thermal transport in jute–mesquite gum plaster of paris composites

Key Points

To assess how different resin compositions influence the mechanical and thermal properties of jute–mesquite gum plaster of paris composites.
Fabricated five composite formulations by varying mesquite gum–POP ratios using hand lay-up technique.
Conducted quasi-static indentation testing to evaluate indentation resistance and energy absorption.
Performed ultrasonic C-scan analysis for internal damage assessment.
Executed thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses to study thermal stability and degradation behavior.
Measured thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity of the composites.
G60P40 composite showed highest indentation resistance (750 ± 12.7 N) and energy absorption (1247 ± 43 N.mm).
Ultrasonic analysis indicated G60P40 had better structural integrity and reduced internal damage than gum-rich formulations.
Thermal analysis showed multistage degradation behavior primarily due to organic decomposition and gypsum dehydration.
Thermal conductivity was moderate (≈0.23–0.43 W/m·K) with decreasing specific heat capacity as POP content increased.
Overall, G60P40 formulation balances mechanical and thermal properties well for sustainable building applications.

Abstract

This study investigates jute fiber–reinforced mesquite gum–plaster of paris (POP) composites with emphasis on quasi-static indentation (QSI), ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation, and thermal behavior. Five composite formulations (G100 to G50P50) were fabricated using a hand lay-up technique by varying the mesquite gum–POP ratio. QSI testing revealed that the G60P40 composite exhibited the highest indentation resistance (750 ± 12.7 N) and energy absorption (1247 ± 43 N.mm), indicating superior damage tolerance. Ultrasonic C-scan analysis confirmed reduced internal damage and improved structural integrity for G60P40 compared to gum-rich formulations, consistent with the force–displacement response. Thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses showed multistage degradation behavior governed primarily by organic decomposition (≈260–370 °C) and gypsum dehydration in POP-containing composites, with increased residual mass reflecting higher inorganic content rather than delayed degradation onset. Thermal transport measurements indicated moderate thermal conductivity (≈0.23–0.43 W/m·K) and decreasing specific heat capacity with increasing POP content, consistent with the replacement of organic gum by inorganic calcium sulfate. Overall, the G60P40 formulation provides an optimal balance between indentation resistance, damage tolerance, and stable thermal response, highlighting the potential of these eco-friendly composites for non-load-bearing construction panels, interior applications, and sustainable building materials.

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