Fiber-reinforced Hybrid Research Articles

Adapting a phenomenological model for predicting acoustical behaviour of Camellia sinensis/Ananas comosus/E-glass fibre-blended epoxy hybrid composites

Developing a hybrid phenomenological model for predicting the sound absorption coefficient of a pineapple leaf fibre/waste tea leaf fibre/glass fibre/epoxy-based natural fibre-reinforced hybrid composites is the predominant topic of this article. Phenomenological models excel at extrapolating characteristic impedance and wave number whereas empirical models require fewer inputs but overlook wave propagation in pores. Existing models apply only to single-fibre-reinforced composites, necessitating the creation of a hybrid model for hybrid composites. The developed hybrid Zwikker–Kosten and Johnson–Champoux–Allard model shows good agreement with experimental data across the frequency range, with standard deviations of 0.001–0.029 and percent deviations of 1.11%–11.43%. The overall noise reduction coefficient between the model and experiments is 0.31 vs. 0.30, with a 3.33% deviation. Furthermore, the application of alkali treatment increased the surface roughness which in turn, enhanced the sound absorption capabilities of these composites. The increased fibre roughness also amplified friction between fibres and sound waves, resulting in higher sound absorption coefficients. In addition, X-ray diffraction, thermal stability (thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry), and scanning electron microscopy examinations were performed on the designated composition (5% by weight of pineapple leaf fibre and 25% by weight of waste tea leaf fibre) of the pineapple leaf fibre/waste tea leaf fibre/glass fibre/epoxy-based natural fibre-reinforced hybrid composite.

Experimental investigation of mechanical and erosion properties of twill E-glass/sisal fiber reinforced hybrid polymer composite

Natural fiber-reinforced hybrids are a new topic of study in supramolecular chemistry. Such natural fabrics are low-cost fibers exhibiting good specific characteristics and low density. The tribological and mechanical properties of handwoven sisal/twill glass fabric reinforced polymer blends were scientifically investigated. Hand lay-up lamination specimens were created in a mould and dried under mild pressure at atmospheric conditions for 24 h. Each of the hybrid composites had four layers, with the quantity and location of glass layers varying to provide five distinct layering patterns. A group of any and all sisal lamination, on the other hand, had been created. ASTM standards were followed for sample preparation and evaluation. The results revealed that incorporating twill E-glass fiber with polymer composites may considerably improve the characteristics of the sisal combination. S5 hybrid composites reached maximum tensile and bending strengths of 74.26 MPa and 161.25 MPa, respectively. The wear of the S3 series laminated hybrid is lower (0.84 × 10–4) than that of the other hybrid compound and plain polymer material. The layering arrangement has a stronger impact on hybrid composites in terms of both mechanical and tribological characteristics. The results show how layering affects the mechanical and tribological properties of these new natural fiber-reinforced combinations. This presents exciting new opportunities for many material research and engineering applications, such as making strong, portable car parts.

Numerical prediction of thermal conductivity and thermal expansion coefficient of glass fiber-reinforced polymer hybrid composites filled with hollow spheres

The optimal performance of composites enriched with hollow spheres has been reported in contemporary literature, whereas their thermal properties have received less attention. In this regard, a finite element method (FEM)-based micromechanical model has been developed systematically to investigate the role of intra-matrix embedding of hollow spheres on the thermal conductivity and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of unidirectional fiber-reinforced hybrid composites. In so doing, the concept of representative volume element (RVE) considers microstructures comprising an epoxy matrix, E-glass fiber, and E-glass hollow spheres, assuming perfect bonding (ideal interface) between the components and modified approximate periodic boundary conditions. By computing the longitudinal and transverse temperature gradients generated due to the application of uniform heat flux as well as the geometrical variation in RVE owing to temperature enhancement, thermal conductivity and CTE have been respectively determined. Comprehensive evaluations have been conducted to examine the effects of microstructural-level features, including fiber volume content and orientation, plus volume content and thickness of hollow spheres, on the effective thermal conductivity and CTE of pseudo-porous ternary E-glass/epoxy composites.

Characterization of mechanical properties, efficiency, and design considerations for the additive manufacturing of hybrid composites with continuous fibers

The integration of continuous fibers into additively manufactured plastic components greatly enhances their mechanical properties. Nonetheless, a challenge lies in the limited adaptability of these properties to specific loading scenarios. To address this issue, present research aims to exploit the hybridization of additively manufactured composites, combining diverse fiber materials within a single component. Specifically, fabricating continuous fiber-reinforced hybrid composites through material extrusion enables high flexibility in adapting local fiber materials. To further the understanding of the effects of hybrid fiber reinforcement in additively manufactured plastic parts, this study investigates how distinct stacking sequences in hybrid and non-hybrid PA6-based composite components, reinforced with carbon and glass fibers, affect deformation and failure behavior. Mechanical properties are assessed using tensile, flexural, and impact tests, in conjunction with an analysis of cost and weight efficiency. The results unveil a distinct correlation between stacking sequences and the mechanical properties of additively manufactured composites. While the hybrid samples predominantly exhibit slight negative hybrid effects, a positive hybrid effect of 96.4 % is achieved in terms of impact toughness with an optimized stacking sequence. With the exception of impact strength, specimens reinforced solely with carbon fibers frequently demonstrate a remarkable ratio between mechanical properties, weight, and cost, whereas hybrid composites exhibit a balanced compromise across all tested mechanical properties. Building upon the obtained results, three comprehensive design approaches are introduced and applied, demonstrating the new design possibilities arising from the combination of hybrid composites and additive manufacturing. The developed design approaches and material combinations can be used for a wide range of lightweight construction applications.

Synergistic effect of different high-performance fibers on the microstructural evolution and mechanical performance of novel hybrid metal matrix composites produced via friction stir processing for automotive applications

The present study aims to produce novel hybrid metal matrix composite (HMMC’s) material using a mixture of reinforcement (basalt, E-glass, and carbon fibers) in long, chopped, and flakes form via Friction Stir Processing (FSP) techniques. Subsequently, the effect of hybrid reinforcement on microstructural evolutions, mechanical performance, and the fracture mechanism of HMMC’s was investigated. The results demonstrated that hybrid reinforcement synergistically enhanced the tensile, flexural, and impact performance of FSPed HMMC’s compared to monolithic composites (non-hybrid) and received base metal (BM). The long fiber-reinforced hybrid aluminum metal matrix composites (HL) show a ~156% increment in tensile strength and ~196% increment in impact strength, while flakes-reinforced hybrid aluminum metal matrix composites (HF) show a ~101% increment in flexural strength compared to the BM. The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis demonstrated a homogeneous dispersion of reinforcement and an excellent interfacial bonding of fibers with the aluminum matrix in the fabricated composites. The validation of element distribution and composition within the composites was confirmed using FESEM elemental mapping and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) spectrum.

Buckling Analysis for Carbon and Glass Fibre Reinforced Hybrid Composite Stiffened Panels

Composite laminated structural panels are widely used in various industries such as aerospace and machinery because of their light weight, large specific stiffness, and strong fatigue resistance. As a typical engineering structure, the composite stiffened plate is designed to enhance the bearing capacity of the laminated plate. In this study, composite stiffened panels reinforced by carbon and/or E-glass fibres are modelled by finite element analysis (FEA) using Ansys. Nonlinear structural analysis is employed to find the critical buckling load. Three different skin layups, i.e., [45°/−45°/90°/0°]S, [90°/0°/90°/0°]S, and [60°/−30°/90°/0°]S, are studied. For each ply angle combination, different ply material combinations are studied. The cost and weight of each combination formed by applying different ply materials to the skin and stiffeners are studied. The results show that hybrid reinforcement in the stiffened panels reduces costs and maintains high buckling loads. Carbon/epoxy composites as the outer layers also reduce costs and maintain acceptable buckling loads without compromising the overall performance. Customized composite designs in terms of cost and weight can be achieved while maintaining critical buckling loads.

The Development of Composites Materials: From Conventional to Innovative Uses

This paper explores the evolution, development, and application of composite substances from conventional methodologies to their innovative uses throughout numerous sectors. Composite materials, known for their strength, versatility, and resilience, have seen substantial advances, especially with the incorporation of nanotechnologies and hybrid fiber reinforcements. By means of analyzing exclusive matrix substances, reinforcement sorts, and fabrication techniques, this study highlights the transition from traditional composites to advanced metallic matrix nanocomposites (MMNCS) and fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPS). Special interest is given to the demanding situations associated with manufacturing, together with uniform dispersion of nanoparticles and damage-free machining of fiber composites. Moreover, the paper discusses the environmental impact that specialize in sustainable options like natural fiber reinforcements. Through comprehensive critiques and case studies, this research objectives to offer a holistic information of the cutting-edge state and future potential of composite materials in improving industrial purposes even as addressing environmental concerns.

Performance Evaluation of Various Natural Fibre-Reinforced Hybrid Polymer Composites for Engineering Applications

Performance Evaluation of Various Natural Fibre-Reinforced Hybrid Polymer Composites for Engineering Applications

Characterisation of Nano Aluminium Oxide Filled Hybrid Cotton Glass FRP Composite Structures

Natural fiber-based composite manufacturing is now an expanding field of study, and it is the preferred option not only because of its exceptional qualities such as light weight, rigidity, low density and superior mechanical properties, but also because it is affordable, biodegradable, fully or mostly recyclable and renewable. A Glass Fibre is a type of Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) made of tiny glass fibers embedded in a plastic matrix. Hybridization of natural and synthetic fibres has to be done to overcome the shortfall of these fibres. When compared to single Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites, fibre-reinforced hybrid composites offer improved mechanical, thermal, and damping characteristics. The goal of this research is to see how Nano Aluminum Oxide (Al2O3) fillers affect the characteristics of hybrid cotton-glass FRP composites. The vacuum bagging technique was used to make nano Al2O3 particles - hybrid cotton-glass FRP composites out of glass fibre chopped strand mat, cotton fabric, epoxy resin, and nano-Al2O3 fillers. The nano Al2O3 fillers were integrated in different weight (wt.) ratios in the FRP and the effect on tensile, flexural and impact properties were examined.

Influence of suspended cenospheres on the mechanical characteristics and wear loss of natural fiber-reinforced hybrid composites: implications for biomedical applications and sustainable material management.

The need for non-conventional natural fibres for synthesis of hybrid composites has gained momentum in the recent past. Taking into consideration this need, in the current study, hybrid composites were fabricated by reinforcing wood apple shell powder and coconut shell powder, in the resin with varying amounts of cenospheres (up to 20 wt% in increments of 5 wt%) to evaluate their mechanical and tribological properties. The densities of these composites were directly correlated with the quantity of additives utilized. Enhanced tensile and flexural properties were noted in composites containing 10 wt% cenospheres, along with 15 wt% wood apple shell powder and coconut shell powder, compared to other formulations. Dry sliding wear tests were performed at room temperature using a pin-on-disc apparatus, considering loading factors, travel distance, and speed. A hybrid composite consisting of 10 wt% cenospheres, subjected to a normal load of 10 N (1.02 kgf), and tested at a sliding speed of 1.5 m s-1 (90 m min-1) over a distance of 500 m, exhibited superior wear resistance compared to all other composite variations.

Properties and applications of natural, synthetic and hybrid fiber reinforced polymer composite: A review

<p>Environmental challenges associated with synthetic reinforcement in polymer composites, such as non-biodegradability and poor recyclability, require the exploration of various natural materials, especially from waste streams, to fully or partially replace such reinforcements. However, these natural fibers also present challenges such as high water absorption, low thermal stability, and average mechanical properties. To circumvent these problems, natural fiber-reinforced hybrid composites, which contain one or more types of natural reinforcement, are gaining increasing research interest. This paper presents a review of natural fiber-reinforced hybrid composites. Both thermoplastics and thermosets reinforced by natural and synthetic fibers (hybrid fibers) are reviewed. The properties of fibers and the resulting composites and processing techniques are summarized.</p>

Retracted: Multiobjective Optimization of Mechanical Properties on Sisal-Glass Fiber-Reinforced Hybrid Composites Using Response Surface Methodology and LINGO Analysis

Retracted: Multiobjective Optimization of Mechanical Properties on Sisal-Glass Fiber-Reinforced Hybrid Composites Using Response Surface Methodology and LINGO Analysis

Evaluation of tensile strength of fibreglass composites-hybrid due to differences in sand size

Hybrid composites are a combination of two or more types of fibers to create alternative materials. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potential of hybrid fiber-particle composites to acquire new tensile properties derived from both types of fibers and particles. In this study, CSM300 glass fiber reinforcement was combined with sand, incorporating varying particle sizes to create a hybrid fiber reinforcement system. The analysis was carried out using five variations of sand particle sizes at 12, 16, 20, 24, and 40 (mesh size). The layers were arranged as RS+FG-SP-FG+RS (resin + fiberglass - sand particle #12, #16, #20, #24, #40 - resin + fiberglass), each incorporated in polyester resin using the manual press molding method at room temperature. The results showed that the highest tensile strength of the hybrid system (RS+FG-SP#16-FG+RS: 49.49 MPa) was achieved by combining both types of glass fiber and sand with #16 (sand mesh size). Furthermore, the maximum yield stress of 44.84 MPa and percent elongation of 10.17% were obtained at #16 and #12 sand mesh size, respectively. Research limitations/implications: The tensile strain-to-failure showed a significant increase from 0.22% at the beginning of the mesh particle size variation and reached a maximum for the fiberglass hybrid composite at #16 sand mesh particle size. For practical implications, the utilization of this technology requires the critical adjustment of sand diameter for industrial hybrid composite applications to achieve desired product specifications. Generally, the tensile index showed an increase at the initial sand size, reaching its peak at 0.35 mm (#16), followed by a decrease as the sand diameter is refined, with increasing mesh size.

Synergistic effects of web reinforcement and hybrid fibres on shear performance of continuous deep beams with unsymmetrical web openings

Application of fibre-reinforced concrete or novel web reinforcement detailing could be an effective way to enhance structural behaviour of continuous deep beams with web openings. However, there are very few experimental works studying the synergistic effects of these two methods. Therefore, an experimental programme is introduced in this paper to study synergistic effects of shear reinforcement and hybrid fibres on shear strength of nine double-span deep beams with unsymmetrical web openings (denoted as pierced span). The test specimens were designed to consist of a pierced beam span with a web opening and an adjacent solid beam span. The spans with openings were designed with different shear reinforcement configurations. It was experimentally shown that provision of sufficient web steels above and below web openings has the most important and beneficial effect on ultimate shear strength of the pierced spans. Besides, a tailored steel reinforcing method was also proposed that is capable of improving strut capacity near the web opening. In addition, adoption of hybrid fibre reinforcement led to enhanced crack-opening resistance, ultimate shear strength and shear deformation. Based on the research outcomes, it was recommended to adopt the proposed detailing method or fibre reinforcement dosage for shear strength enhancement of continuous deep beams with web openings. Furthermore, an analytical model was adopted to the shear strength of continuous deep beams accounting for web openings, steel stirrups, and hybrid fibres, which yielded safe predictions.

Multi-objective optimal design for carbon and basalt fibre-reinforced hybrid composites under flexural loading

This paper presents a study on the optimal design of hybrid composites reinforced by woven carbon and basalt fibre fabrics. The investigation focuses on evaluating the flexural properties of these hybrid composites through finite element analysis (FEA)-based simulations. To determine potential optimal stacking sequences, design rules are employed. For each stacking sequence, a regression model is developed to establish the correlation between the flexural strength and the fibre volume fractions. Using these regression models, solutions meeting the minimum required flexural strength are found for each stacking sequence. With the objectives of minimising both cost and weight, the optimal solutions are found from these solutions. It is shown that for most optimal solutions, basalt/epoxy and carbon/epoxy plies should be placed on the compressive and tensile sides, respectively. When the minimum required flexural strength is high (800 MPa or 900 MPa), sandwich type stacking sequences with carbon/epoxy plies on both the compressive and tensile sides can also be the optimal solutions. Key findings from this study include.1. Stacking sequences [C]8, [B2C6], [B2C2BC3], [B2C2]2, [B2C2B3C], [B2CB4C], and [B7C] are optimal solutions for all minimum flexural strengths.2. Stacking sequences [B3C]2 and [B]8 are optimal solutions when the minimum flexural strength is up to 800 MPa.3. Stacking sequence [BC7] can be one of the optimal solutions when the minimum flexural strength is 600 MPa or 700 MPa.4. Stacking sequence [C4B2C2] is one of the optimal solutions when the minimum flexural strength is 800 MPa or 900 MPa, and stacking sequence [C3B3C2] is one of the optimal solutions when the minimum flexural strength is 900 MPa.

Structural performance analysis of hemp fiber-reinforced hybrid composites in wind turbine blade manufacturing

The modern environmental policy encourages the development of green energy industries, including wind turbine industry. The scientific community tests the possibility of introducing and using, in the different structures of the wind turbine, reliable and eco-friendly materials.The objective of this study was to design an optimal wind turbine blade using hemp fibers as composites reinforcement. To do so, first, the blade design was defined using Blade Element Momentum (BEM) theory and done using Catia V5®. Then, a finite element model of the blade was created by PATRAN® software and analyzed by NASTRAN® software. Finally, based on analyses of various scenarios, the choice of the material under the static load was reported.The optimal scenario based on the insertion of hemp fibers showed a 20% reduction in weight between the old and new model, and a cost reduction of approximately 30%, while still conforming to blade design standards.

Mechanical properties of multi-scale mono/hybrid non-metallic fiber-reinforced ultra-high performance seawater sea-sand concrete

Ultra-high performance seawater sea-sand concrete (UHP-SSC) is a promising construction material with excellent mechanical and durability properties, addressing the deficiency of materials like fresh water and river sand.Nevertheless, the steel fibers that reinforce UHPC are unsuitable for UHP-SSC, resulting from the corrosion problem. In this regard, this study investigated the impacts of multi-scale (micro and macro) mono and hybrid non-metallic fiber reinforcements on the mechanical properties of UHP-SSC. The experiments, including flowability, compression, and third-point bending, were carried out. The surface morphologies and microstructures of UHP-SSC were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and low-field nuclear magnetic resonance. The mono-fiber comprised three micro-fiber types: polyvinyl alcohol fiber (PVAF), carbon fiber (cF), and basalt fiber (bF); along with two macro-fiber types: polypropylene fiber (PPF) and basalt fiber reinforced polymer fiber (BF), while the hybrid fiber reinforcement was composed of different hybridization of foregoing fibers. The results indicated that the compressive and flexural properties of plain UHP-SSC were enhanced by adding micro- or macro-fiber. The enhancement is positively related to the elastic modulus of fibers. Notably, utilizing macro-fiber can effectively improve the flexural toughness, particularly for BF, which induces strong strain-hardening behavior. Microscopic and microstructure observations confirmed the strength and toughness evolution and illustrated the relevant mechanism. In the case of fiber hybridization, the combination of micro- and macro-fiber has a positive synergy effect, and the mixture with bF and BF exhibits the utmost synergistic influence when the volume of bF is controlled within 0.4 vol%.

The effect of hybrid fiber and shear stud on the punching performance of flat-slab systems

In this paper, for the first time, the binary/ternary hybrid fiber and/or shear stud reinforcement as a measure was used to improve the punching performance of flat-slab systems by innovative self-compacting concrete (SCC). Because in these slab systems, sudden and brittle punching failure can be seen due to application and design errors, early removal of formwork, changes in the purpose of use of the building, earthquakes, etc. Besides, numerous studies investigated the punching performance of the single fiber and/or shear stud reinforced flat-slab systems, but research into the measures of the hybrid fiber or the combined use of hybrid fiber and shear stud reinforcement, which were the variable parameters of this study, was quite lacking. For this purpose, the half-scale slab-column connection elements were produced from SCC containing different punching measures (binary/ternary hybrid and/or shear stud) and tested to investigate the punching performance of flat-slab systems. In conclusion, it was found that hybrid fiber reinforcement was the best punching measure to improve the punching performance of slab-column connection elements with/out shear stud. Besides, 3D graphs were drawn so that designers and researchers could estimate the punching strength and energy absorption capacity for flat-slab systems with/out shear stud based on the parameters of micro fiber type and total volume fraction. On the other hand, empirical formulas were developed to predict the punching strength of binary/ternary hybrid fiber reinforced flat-slab systems with/out shear stud by compressive strength, fiber reinforcement index, the slab useful height, and the punching perimeter parameters.

Experimental investigation on mechanical properties and water absorption capacity of novel polyester-wool-glass fibre-reinforced hybrid polymer matrix composites

Experimental investigation on mechanical properties and water absorption capacity of novel polyester-wool-glass fibre-reinforced hybrid polymer matrix composites

A comparative study on the mechanical properties of African teff and snake grass fiber-reinforced hybrid composites: effect of bio castor seed shell/glass/SiC fillers

Abstract The environmental awareness and sustainable nature of plant-based fibers have forced material researchers and automakers to use natural fibers instead of petroleum-based fibers for various industrial applications. The need for environmentally and biodegradable fibers has created a demand in the transportation industry. In this study, bio castor seed shell (C), glass fiber (G), and SiC (SC) fillers in a constant weight fraction (10 %) were reinforced separately with varying weight fractions (5–25 %) of African teff and snake grass fibers to improve the mechanical properties of the hybrid composites. Both African teff and snake grass fibers were subjected to alkaline treatment to remove amorphous elements such as hemicellulose, lignin, and wax, resulting in high surface roughness. The hybrid composites were fabricated by the compression molding technique and their mechanical properties were characterized as per ASTM standards. The fractured surface of the treated fiber was examined by scanning electron microscopy. From the results, it was found that SC10SG20AT showed maximum mechanical properties compared to C10SG20AT and G10SG20AT due to higher load-bearing capacity of SiC filler. Therefore, SC10SG20AT can be recommended for lightweight applications.