MECHANICAL AND FREE VIBRATION DAMPING BEHAVIOR OF HYBRID COMPOSITE LAMINATES WITH WOVEN GLASS FIBER CERAMIC REINFORCEMENT

Abstract

In this research, a hybrid fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) laminate with significant demand across diverse structural applications, including automobiles, aircraft, space, defense, and marine sectors, has been investigated. The composite fiber is a combination of epoxy-glass laminas featuring distinct stacking sequences. Each epoxy glass lamina comprises a woven glass fiber mat and epoxy resin. The primary focus of this study is on the impact of different stacking sequences on the tensile and flexural behaviors of the laminates. Tensile and flexural tests were conducted to assess the mechanical properties, while damping behavior was evaluated through an experimental setup. The unique stacking patterns and fiber hybridization of the FRP laminates result in enhanced capabilities to reduce sound, noise, and vibration. Considering the importance of weight in military operations, these laminates offer high strength with minimal weight. Among the tested samples, the FC-C composite demonstrated the highest ultimate strength at 106.23 MPa and the greatest toughness energy at 433.45 N/cm2. Furthermore, the FC-D sample exhibited a superior fundamental frequency of 41 Hz, while the highest damping factor was observed in the case of FC-A. Additionally, the initial vibration revealed a bending mode followed by a twisting mode at higher frequencies, showcasing the versatility and effectiveness of the FRP laminates in various structural applications.