Papers by Keyword: Natural Fiber Composite

Abstract: Natural fibre composites are gaining importance in engineering and automotive sectors due to their sustainability, lightweight nature, and cost-effectiveness. However, their flexural modulus and other mechanical properties require enhancement to meet industrial standards. This study aims to improve the performance of hybrid composites reinforced with hemp, jute, and coir fibres in an epoxy matrix. Specimens were fabricated using the hand lay-up technique followed by compression moulding and tested according to ASTM standards. Mechanical characterization included hardness, tensile, flexural, compressive, and impact tests, along with water absorption analysis. The results demonstrated significant improvements, with maximum hardness of 80 HRM, tensile strength of 16.95 N/mm², compressive strength of 5.268 N/mm², flexural strength of 95.96 N/mm², and impact resistance of 0.20 J. Water absorption varied between 11.6% and 25%, depending on resin-to-fibre ratios. One-way ANOVA confirmed statistically significant differences among formulations (p = 0.005), validating the effect of fibre–resin composition. The optimal formulation (75% epoxy with balanced fibre reinforcement) achieved superior mechanical performance, establishing hybrid natural fibre composites as a promising eco-friendly alternative to conventional materials.

Abstract: The aim of this study of mechanical behavior of these composites under tensile and impact loading and their applicability to real applications is the goal. Group 1 The ultimate tensile strength of Ficus religiosa stem fiber is 11.939[N/mm²]. Group 2 ultimate strength of sisal fiber is 9.006 [N/mm²]. As indicated by the results, sisal fibers significantly enhanced the impact resistance and tensile strength of composite materials, therefore they are viable to apply in various engineering application. displayed promise as an inherent composite with limited mechanical potential, as indicated by its good tensile and impact strength.

Abstract: This study explores the potential of Lygodium circinatum (commonly known as Nito vine), an underutilized natural fiber in polymer composites, as reinforcement in epoxy-based polymer composites. With the growing shift toward sustainable alternatives to synthetic fibers, Nito fiber presents an eco-friendly and cost-effective option. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) treatment was applied to modify the fiber surface, and its effects on the fiber–matrix interaction, thermal stability, and mechanical performance were evaluated. FTIR analysis confirmed the successful reduction of non-cellulosic components such as hemicellulose in the treated fibers. SEM micrographs revealed enhanced interfacial bonding between the NaOH-treated fibers and the epoxy matrix, with reduced signs of debonding. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated improved thermal stability in composites containing treated fibers, as reflected by a higher degradation temperature. Mechanical properties such as tensile and flexural strength and modulus, as well as impact resistance, however, did not exhibit significant improvements, which might also be affected by the variability in the natural fibers and the hand lay-up method. These findings emphasize both the promise of Nito fiber as a viable natural reinforcement and the importance of consistent processing methods in composite fabrication. Overall, this work supports the favorable transition toward natural fibers in composite applications, particularly where thermal performance is prioritized.

Abstract: This study investigates the mechanical and low-velocity impact properties of 3D-printed Polyamide 12 (PA12) composites reinforced with randomly oriented hemp fibers. Hemp fiber was incorporated at varying weight percentages (4%, 6%, 8%, 10%, and 12%) within the PA12 matrix. Compression molding at 185°C and 4000 psi was used to fabricate composite samples. Tensile testing, drop weight impact analysis, hardness measurement, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were conducted to characterize the mechanical behavior of the composites. Results demonstrate that the incorporation of hemp fibers significantly enhances the tensile properties of the PA12 matrix. Composites containing 6% hemp exhibited the highest tensile strength compared to neat PA12. Further increasing the hemp fiber content up to 10% maintained comparable tensile properties to the 6% composite.

Abstract: This study explores the use of sodium bicarbonate-treated Nito core fiber as a natural and eco-friendly alternative for fiber-reinforced composites to address the challenge of enhancing the mechanical properties of composite materials while also prioritizing environmental sustainability. Nito core fibers were treated with different concentrations of sodium bicarbonate, an economical and eco-friendly alternative to alkali treatment, to enhance its compatibility with various matrices. FTIR results showed that NaHCO3 treatment effectively removed and reduced some non-cellulosic components present in the Nito fiber such as hemicellulose and lignin. This resulted in the NaHCO3-treated fiber-epoxy composite showing better tensile strength and modulus of elasticity than the epoxy composite reinforced with untreated Nito fiber. The use of treated fiber, however, did not have a noticeable effect on the flexural strength and flexural modulus of the epoxy composite. The SEM images of the nito fiber-epoxy composites showed better fiber-matrix adhesion between the treated nito fiber and epoxy matrix. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of nito fiber-epoxy composites shows that the thermal stability of the composite is mainly due to the presence of cellulose, which can also be enhanced by some lignin. This study, therefore demonstrates the potential of Nito ‘core’ fibers as a viable substitute for synthetic reinforcements that can contribute to the advancement of composite material technology that aligns with the global shift towards environmentally responsible manufacturing practices.

Abstract: Extensive research has been conducted on fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites, which have demonstrated superior mechanical properties compared to their individual components. In order to add on to current research trends, the use of ground coffee waste (GCW) and Luffa fibers reinforced polyethylene (PE) composites were fabricated to produce a hybrid natural FRP composite. Tensile testing of the composite indicates that the optimum fiber volume to be between 15% and 35%, as the tensile strength exhibited 9.32 MPa and 8.75 MPa, respectively. Similarly, the tensile modulus of the fabricated composite peaked at 25% with 238 MPa, then declined to 173 MPa at 35%. This indicates that the fibers effectively reinforce the polymer matrix, but once the composite reaches its optimal fiber volume, a decrease in both tensile strength and tensile modulus is observed. The reduction in tensile properties can be attributed to an uneven distribution of load-bearing capacity throughout the composite, as the fibers are no longer able to fully support the matrix once the optimal fiber volume is reached. The specific tensile strength and specific tensile modulus also shows that with the inclusion of Luffa fiber and GCW microfiber contributed to a lighter weight composite. In a nutshell, the hybrid composite fabricated using 25% fiber volume exhibited a tensile strength almost similar to its neat matrix counterpart, though has a noteworthy value in terms of its tensile modulus. The hybrid composite can be as strong in terms of tensile strength, but far more significant in its rigidity, in comparison to the neat polyethylene laminate. Therefore, it showed that the hybrid natural Luffa/GCW FRP has the potential in the engineering industry, such as lightweight furniture, household appliances, automotive parts, and other composite engineering applications.

Abstract: Even though synthetic fiber give higher of strength in composites and is low cost material, the biggest problems faced when using this material is that it does not degrade or compose in the environment. The usage of natural fibers in industrial application become the main concern because it offer both cost savings and a reduction in density when compared to existing fibers such as glass fibers and etc. This make the needs for renewable fiber reinforced composites are increasing and have never been as prevalent as it currently is. Although the strength of natural fibers is not great as glass, the specific properties are comparable. Continuous yarn fibers are required to increase the strength for engineering applications and filament winding is a method to produce aligned technical composites which have high fiber content. This paper presents a review on composites made of natural fiber and different resin that been processed via filament winding technique.

Abstract: The aim of this paper was the effects of different fiber size on tensile and flexural properties. Preparation of thermoset unsaturated polyester reinforced with particle Bertam (Eugeissona tristis) was done by hand layout method. Bertam/polyester composites containing Bertam fiber of different sizes, i.e., 15, 120 and 284 μm were prepared. For each composite, eight specimens were tested to evaluate the mechanical properties. It was found that composite reinforced with Bertam having the shortest fiber length, i.e, 15 μm showed the highest tensile and flexural modulus, which were 204.14 MPa and 1826.78 MPa, respectively.

Abstract: This research focuses on predicting long-term behavior of unsaturated polyester resin (UP) and kenaf unsaturated polyester composite. The objectives of these tests are to establish a relationship between stress, strain and time at constant loading and temperature. The results obtained from these tests are used in predicting the life and strength of the polymer material. Based on the 1,000 hours experimental data, curve fitting and Findley Power Law models are employed to predict long-term behavior of the material. The results showed that curve fitting model accurately predicted the non-linear time dependent creep deformation of these materials with acceptable accuracy.