Manufacturing and Mechanical Properties Testing of Hybrid Natural Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composites

Abstract

Abstract: A composite material is a materials system made up of two or more micro or macro elements with different forms and chemical compositions that are largely insoluble in one another. It basically comprises of two phases: matrix and fiber. Polymers, ceramics, and metals such as nylon, glass, graphite, Aluminium oxide, boron, and aluminium are examples of fibres. In the present research work epoxy is used as matrix and Bamboo, Sugarcane Bagasse and Coconut fibre are used as fibres for preparing the composites. In the preparation of specimen, the fibre as taken as a continuous fibre. The fibre is treated with NaOH solution. Hybrid natural fibre reinforced composites of bamboo, sugarcane baggase and coconut coir has been prepared using hand lay-up process of composite manufacturing. These hybrid composites were tested for determining their tensile and impact strengths. Results of mechanical testing reveals that the tensile strength of Bamboo- Bagasse hybrid composite is more compared to other composites. Taking into consideration of enhanced tensile and impact strength of bamboo-bagasse hybrid natural fibre polymer composite, we recommend the use of hybrid bamboo-bagasse composite in manufacturing of automotive bodies. Because of their unique characteristics of recyclability, waste utilization, biodegradability, good strength, and a viable alternative to plastics, these composites can be used for a variety of applications