Physical and mechanical properties of hybrid composites using Kevlar fibre and nano-SiO2

Abstract

ABSTRACT The current study aims to examine the mechanical and physical properties of Kevlar fibre/nano-silica/epoxy hybrid composites. The hand layup process followed by compression moulding was used to prepare a hybrid composite with different weight percentages (0%, 1%, 3%, and 5%) of nano SiO2 and four layers of the Kevlar fibres. Hardness, flexural, tensile, and impact tests were performed to evaluate mechanical properties. Nano SiO2 and Kevlar fibre improve the mechanical properties of the hybrid composites up to 3 wt.%. Rockwell Hardness tests suggest that the hardness of composites (K3) has improved up to 29% compare to K0. Tensile strength is about double at 3 wt.% nano SiO2 compared to neat laminates. The K3 has highest impact strength has increased by 50%. Flexural properties also increase up to 3 wt.% nano SiO2 reinforcement. Density, water absorption, and thickness swelling test wear were performed for the evolution of physical properties. Morphological analysis was done with the help of the field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) technique.