Characterization of sisal/cotton fibre woven mat reinforced polymer hybrid composites

Abstract

The present research work addressed the results of experimental investigation on the mechanical properties and free vibration behaviours of sisal/cotton fabric reinforced polyester hybrid composites. Influence of fibre content and changing layer pattern (CLP) on the mechanical properties and free vibration characteristics are analysed. Hybrid composites are fabricated with simple hand lay-up method followed by compression moulding process. Natural frequency and modal damping values of hybrid composites are analysed by experimental modal analysis. Mechanical properties of composites are measured according to ASTM standards. It is found that an increase in the lamina content in the composite increase the mechanical and damping properties. The maximum mechanical properties are obtained for 40% fibre volume fraction ( Vf) in sisal and cotton direction. Maximum natural frequency is found at 40% fibre Vf. By CLP, mechanical properties and damping characteristics are found intermittence of sisal and cotton direction. Scanning electron microscopy is performed to study the interfacial mechanism. The various theoretical models are discussed with experimental results. The statistical approach is used to analyse the experimental results and give the inferences.