Physical Properties of Glass-Hemp-Banana Hybrid Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites

Abstract

Background/Objectives: In this experimental work the effect of mechanical properties on incorporation of glass fibre with treated banana-hemp fibres has been studied. Methods/Statistical analysis: Banana and hemp fibres are extracted by enzymatic processes for successfully removing lignin. The alkaline solution was used to treat the fibres since it is increases their mechanical strength. The banana, hemp and glass fibres were reinforced with the epoxy matrix and the hybrid composites were fabricated by using hand layup process. Alternative orientations of fibres were used for the fabrication of the laminates in order to improve their strength. Findings: As per the ASTM standards, test specimens were prepared from the laminates with the stacking sequence of glass/banana fibre, glass/hemp fibre and glass/banana/hemp fibre. The mechanical characteristics were obtained by impact test, tensile test and flexural test for the fabricated samples. The interfacial analysis was conducted using scanning electron microscope to estimate voids, fractures and fibre pull out. The experimental result shows that the glass/banana/hemp fibre composite exhibits maximum tensile strength than the other two combinations. The hemp-glass fibre composite holds the maximum flexural strength followed by glass/hemp/banana fibre composites. The glass/banana fibre composites hold maximum impact energy and the value of the composites varies from 7.33 to 9.33 Joules. Application/Improvements: These composites are performing well in all kind of mechanical loadings. It is suggested that these materials can be used in the relevant fields. Keywords: Alkaline Treatment, Banana Fiber, Hemp Fiber, Mechanical Properties, SEM Analysis