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High-Speed Impact and Fracture Performance of Sustainable Banana Fibre-Graphite Epoxy Composites for Protective Structural Applications

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Abstract:

Lightweight and sustainable materials for protective systems are increasingly required to replace conventional synthetic composites. This study investigates the blast response of banana fibre–epoxy composite panels, with and without graphite particulate reinforcement, for potential bomb blanket applications. Panel-scale specimens (25 cm × 25 cm × 2 cm) were subjected to controlled explosive loading using Plastic Explosive (P.E.) No. 4 initiated by PETN detonators. Relative deflection behaviour was evaluated using high-speed visual observation and a dough medium indicator. Graphite-reinforced panels showed reduced apparent peak deflection, lower residual deformation, and improved structural integrity compared to non-graphite panels. The enhanced performance is attributed to improved stiffness, crack deflection, and fibre–matrix cohesion induced by graphite addition. These findings indicate that banana fibre–graphite epoxy composites have potential as sustainable protective materials for bomb blanket applications.

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Periodical:

Key Engineering Materials (Volume 1059)

Pages:

101-106

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4028/p-d3AEzu

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Online since:

June 2026

Authors:

Abdul Rashid Othman*, Ahmad Humaizi Hilmi, Asna Rasyidah Abdul Hamid, Siti Aisyah Azman

Keywords:

Banana Fibre Composite, Blast Resistance, Bomb Blanket, Graphite Reinforcement, Sustainable Protective Materials

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© 2026 Trans Tech Publications Ltd. All Rights Reserved

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