Effect of Layering Sequence of Composite Natural Fibers on Mechanical Characterisation

Abstract

Banana fibers and Kenaf fibers are natural fibers with good tensile strength. We can prepare epoxy based bio-composite from these fibers. In this work, banana (B) and kenaf (K) fibers reinforced unidirectional (UD) hybrid bio-composites are prepared. Totally two plates are manufactured. First Plate is 4 layers unidirectional 15% Banana +15% Kenaf fibers alternate layers composite (UD B-K-B-K). The second Plate is 4 layers 15% Banana +15% Kenaf fibers cumulative layers composite (UD B-B-K-K). Tensile, Flexural and Izod impact tests are carried out as per ASTM standards. Effect of layering sequence on these mechanical properties is investigated experimentally. It is found that cumulative layer (UD B-B-K-K) has better tensile and flexural strength than alternate layers (UD B-K-B-K) bio-composite. Whereas alternate layer (UD B-K-B-K) bio-composite shows better impact strength than cumulative layer (UD B-B-K-K) bio-composite.