Mechanical Properties and Characterization of Hybrid Composition Reinforced with Natural Fibers

Abstract

The current work involves fabrication of hybrid composite by using sisal and roselle natural fibers as reinforcing elements or fillers with epoxy resin (LAPOX L12) and Hardener or catalyst (K6) by hand lay-up method with a 35:75 ratio. Enhancement of mechanical properties in polymer hybrid composites is exhibited by the possible intermixture of roselle and sisal fibers [1]. The effect of loose and continuous fiber (CLFR) and woven mat fiber-reinforced (WMFR) hybrid composite laminates were tested to evaluate the mechanical and physical performance exhibited by them. Water absorption test along with thickness swelling test was carried out and the data was recorded for reference. The tensile strength and modulus of WMFR composite (dry) are reduced by 35% and 17%, respectively, and compressive strength and modulus of WMFR composite (dry) are reduced by 17% and 33%, respectively. It was also noticed that Erosion rate of the samples increases as the increase of sand particle size, sand concentration, and erosion rate is high in case CLFR (4.93%) composite. Water absorption is high in CLFR than in WMFR composite. SEM analysis revealed that fiber pull-out, de-bonding, matrix softening, fiber rupture, sliding tracks, debris, and cracks were the reasons for the failure of composites. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2024.