Development and characterization of hybrid fiber reinforced polymer composites

Abstract

Objectives: To develop hybrid composite material by incorporating jute/bamboo fibers and jute/kneaf fibers in epoxy matrix. To evaluate and compare the mechanical properties of aforesaid hybrid composites using various test. Methods/ Statistical Analysis: Compression molding machine is used for preparing two hybrid composite laminates, viz, jute/ bamboo/epoxy and jute/kneaf/epoxy. The physical and mechanical properties of jute/bamboo/epoxy and jute/kneaf/ epoxy hybrid composites are found by conducting various test like tensile, flexural, impact etc. Findings: Based on physical and mechanical examination, it is observed that there is no difference in density value and volume fraction of voids. But, there is difference in tensile, flexural, inter laminar shear and impact strengths. The result of this study showed that the jute/bamboo fiber reinforced epoxy composite is successfully developed in terms of strength for the same weight compared to jute/kneaf fiber reinforced epoxy composite. Application/Improvements: These hybrid composites are biodegradable and can be utilized to make household articles and mechanical parts like gears.