Structural Analysis of NFRP Composite Boat Hull Using Finite Element Method

Abstract

Composite materials have conquered over conventional materials, is a reality now. Despite many advantages, composite materials like CFRP and GFRP etc. lack some key properties like sustainability, renewability and environmental impact. In this perspective, natural fiber composites and bio-composites are gaining more attention. The principal driving forces for new bio‐composite materials are: the cost of natural fibers (currently priced at one‐third of the cost of glass fiber or less), weight reduction (these fibers stay half the weight of glass fiber), recycling (natural fiber composites are easier to recycle) and the desire for green products. In this study, an attempt is made to reveal mechanical properties of natural fiber composites like bamboo, banana and silk (Raw and waste silk) fiber as the reinforcements. A theoretical study is conducted to find out the properties of natural fiber composites (Abaca, Pineapple, Jute, Hemp fibers etc.). A comparison is made among these fibers in terms of Young’s Modulus, Poisson’s ratio, tensile strength, and shear strength etc. A boat hull is selected, and structural analysis conducted for conventional fiber glass and the selected NFRP composite. From the study it was found that NFRP composite is an effective competent for conventional fiber glass.