Morphology and Mechanical Properties of Epoxy/Synthetic/Natural Fiber Composites

Abstract

Epoxy resin is a widely used matrix materials for making composite materials. Natural as well as synthetic fibers are extensively used in composites. The use of synthetic fibers can be reduced by using natural fibers along with synthetic fibers. Natural fibers like hemp, flax, kenaf, jute, etc. have been used in conjunction with synthetic fibers like glass, Kevlar, and carbon. The ultimate properties are dependent of many parameters. The type of fibers, ratio of natural to synthetic fiber, the weaving and stacking pattern, fiber ply arrangement, etc. are some of the important factors governing the properties of the hybrid composites. This chapter outlines the mechanical properties and morphology of various natural/synthetic hybrid fiber composites with epoxy resin as the matrix material.KeywordsEpoxy resinHybrid compositeNatural fiberSynthetic fiber