Experimental investigation of the mechanical behaviour of jute/glass fiber composite infused with MWCNT

Abstract

Composite materials have attracted significant attention due to their superior properties, and this has led to extensive research in the field. To enhance their performance and reduce costs, hybridization of natural and synthetic fibers has become increasingly popular. The current study investigates the mechanical behaviour of jute and glass hybrid composites reinforced with multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) particles. The composites were manufactured with varying reinforcement fractions (0.5%, 0.75%, 1%, and 2%), and their tensile and flexural strength were evaluated. Additionally, the study examined the influence of hybridization between jute and glass fibers with different fiber stacking sequences, fiber orientations (0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°), and various nano filler percentages. The results indicate a significant improvement in the mechanical performance of composites with increasing reinforcement weight fraction. Specifically, the tensile strength improved by 25% and flexural strength improved by 30% with a reinforcement weight fraction of up to 1 wt%, after which decreasing values were observed due to the agglomeration of nano particles in the matrix. These findings contribute to an understanding of the mechanical behaviour of jute and glass hybrid composites reinforced with MWCNT particles and provide insights for the development of advanced composite materials.