Abstract
In this paper, the effects of stacking sequence and ply orientation on the mechanical properties of pineapple leaf fibre (PALF)/carbon hybrid laminate composites were investigated. The hybrid laminates were fabricated using a vacuum infusion technique in which the stacking sequences and ply orientations were varied, which were divided into the categories of cross-ply symmetric, angle-ply symmetric, and symmetric quasi-isotropic. The results of tensile and flexural tests showed that the laminate with interior carbon plies and ply orientation [0°, 90°] exhibited the highest tensile strength (187.67 MPa) and modulus (5.23 GPa). However, the highest flexural strength (289.46 MPa) and modulus (4.82 GPa) were recorded for the laminate with exterior carbon plies and the same ply orientation. The fracture behaviour of the laminates was determined by using scanning electron microscopy, and the results showed that failure usually initiated at the weakest PALF layer. The failure modes included fibre pull-out, fibre breaking, matrix crack, debonding, and delamination.
Highlights
In recent times, hybrid reinforcement composites have been used worldwide because of their dimensional stability and superior mechanical properties [1]
Among the promising methods to enhance the properties of natural fibres is reinforcement by manipulating the stacking sequences and fibre orientation
The pineapple leaf fibre (PALF) and carbon fibre were supplied by a local supplier
Summary
Hybrid reinforcement composites have been used worldwide because of their dimensional stability and superior mechanical properties [1]. The leaf yields high cellulose fibre; the main constitutent is cellulose (70–82%) and the remaining constituents are lignin (5–12%) and ash (1.1%) [21] Because of their excellent mechanical strength and low cost, PALF has high application potential as biodegradable plastic composites [22], reinforced polymer composites [23,24], low-density polyethylene (LDPE) composites [25], thermoset composites [23], thermoplastic composites [26], and rubber composites [27]. PALF/carbon fibre hybrid composites can be designed to meet particular applications by manipulating the matrix ratio, fibre length, stacking sequence, and fibre orientation to achieve variations in mechanical and physical properties [28,29]. The current investigations were carried out to explore the correlation of fibre orientation and stacking sequence on the tensile and flexural behaviour of PALF/carbon fibre hybrid composites
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
