Mechanical Behavior Investigation of Hybrid Polymer Matrix Composites: An Experimental Approach
Hiral H. Parikh, Meet Panchal, Viren ParikhIntroduction:
Owing to characteristics such as lightweight nature, renewability, and environmental sustainability, natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites have attracted significant attention in recent years. The present study focuses on the development of hybrid composites reinforced with Kenaf, Banana, and Sisal fibers and the evaluation of their mechanical properties.
Introduction:
Owing to characteristics such as lightweight nature, renewability, and environmental sustainability, natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites have attracted significant attention in recent years. The present study focuses on the development of hybrid composites reinforced with Kenaf, Banana, and Sisal fibers and the evaluation of their mechanical properties.
materials and methods:
Hybrid FRP composite laminates were fabricated using the hand layup technique, where kenaf, banana, and sisal fibers were combined with a polymer matrix. Composite specimens were prepared according to the required ASTM standards for mechanical testing. Tensile strength and hardness tests were conducted to assess the effect of fiber hybridization on the composite's mechanical characteristics.
Methods:
The hybrid composite samples were manufactured using the hand layup method. Test specimens were prepared according to the relevant ASTM testing standards for evaluating tensile strength and hardness properties. The performance of hybrid composites was compared with that of single-fiber composites.
Results:
The experimental results revealed that the hybrid composites exhibited slightly lower tensile strength compared to the single-fiber composites. The best-performing hybrid composite, consisting of Sisal–Kenaf fibers, exhibited a maximum tensile strength of 37.4 MPa and a hardness value of 71.1 HRR. Furthermore, the hybrid composites demonstrated enhanced hardness and improved resistance to surface damage compared to monofiber composites.
Discussion:
The reduction in tensile strength of the hybrid composites was attributed to the differences in fiber properties and the interfacial bonding characteristics between the fibers and matrix material. However, the incorporation of multiple natural fibers contributed to improved hardness and wear resistance, indicating better surface durability.
Conclusion:
The study concludes that hybridization of natural fibers can lead to the development of sustainable, durable, lightweight, and wear-resistant composite materials suitable for various engineering and structural applications.