Mechanical characterization of mulberry silk reinforced hybrid composite for enhanced application

Abstract

This research explores the effectiveness of two hybrid composites, pattern-1 (K-M-G-K-M-G-G-M-K) and pattern-2 (K-M-G-K-M-G-K-M-G), in experimental and simulation tests to create a cost-efficient hybrid composite. The composite includes Mulberry (M) silk (Bombyx mori) fibers reinforcing an epoxy resin-matrix hybrid with Kevlar (K) and Glass fiber (G). Both pattern-1 and pattern-2 are evaluated through experimental tests, and simulation tests are conducted to validate the findings. ANSYS Workbench is used for simulation tests to determine the best stacking sequence for protective gears, aerospace components, automotive parts, sport equipment and marine applications. The structural morphology of the hybrid composites is examined using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results show that pattern-1 performs better than pattern-2 in various experimental and simulation tests, with a wider plastic zone in the tensile test stress-strain curve, greater tensile strength (73 MPa and 67.923 MPa), higher load-bearing capacity, and enhanced ductility. Pattern-1 also demonstrates improved performance in flexural strength (45.35 MPa and 71.474 MPa) and impact strength (6 J and 5.4898 J). Simulation results confirm that pattern-1 is superior to pattern-2 in terms of energy absorption and resistance to bullet penetration.