OPTIMIZING IMPACT STRENGTH IN POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE/ MILLET HUSK COMPOSITE VIA RESPONSE SURFACE METHODOLOGY

This study focuses on optimizing the impact strength of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) reinforced with millet husk particles using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The growing demand for sustainable and cost-effective composite materials has driven interest in utilizing agricultural waste as reinforcement in polymer matrices. In this research, millet husk was processed and incorporated into PET at varying proportions, alongside other processing parameters such as temperature and pressure. A statistical experimental design based on RSM was employed to evaluate the combined effects of these variables and to develop a predictive model for impact strength. The results revealed that both filler content and processing conditions significantly influence the mechanical performance of the composite. An optimal combination of parameters was identified, yielding maximum impact strength while maintaining material integrity. The developed model showed good agreement between predicted and experimental values, confirming its reliability. This study demonstrates the potential of millet husk as a viable reinforcement material in PET composites and highlights the effectiveness of RSM as a tool for process optimization in material engineering applications.