Effects of Ply Orientations and Stacking Sequences on Impact Response of Pineapple Leaf Fibre (PALF)/Carbon Hybrid Laminate Composites

Abstract

This study investigated the impact response behaviours of pineapple leaf fibre (PALF)/carbon hybrid laminate composites for different ply orientations and stacking sequences. The laminates were manufactured using a vacuum infusion approach with various stacking sequences and ply orientations classified as symmetric quasi-isotropic, angle-ply symmetric, and cross-ply symmetric. The laminates were analysed using an IMATEK IM10 drop weight impact tester with an increment of 5 J until the samples were perforated. This investigation reveals that the overall impact properties of PALF and carbon as reinforcements were improved by a beneficial hybridised effect. The laminates with an exterior carbon layer can withstand high impact energy levels up to 27.5 J. The laminate with different stacking sequences had a lower energy transfer rate and ruptured at higher impact energy. The laminates with ply orientations of [0°/90°] and [±45°]8 exhibited 10% to 30% better energy absorption than those with ply orientations of [±45°2, 0°/90°2]s and [0°/90°2, ±45°2]s due to energy being readily transferred within the same linear ply orientation. Through visual inspection, delamination was observed to occur at the interfaces of different stacking sequences and ply orientations.

Novel method of multiaxis weaving and impact analysis of the ensuing composites

“…The failure of composite starts with onset of matrix cracking caused by tension, shear or compression. 35,36 This also causes debonding of matrix from the fibres and its extent depends on the mismatch properties between matrix and fibres. 37 The delamination starts after matrix failure reaches its peak.…”

Effect of fibre orientation and stacking sequence on properties of hybrid composites

“…Also, the stacking sequence and the orientation play a vital role in the final strength of the composite [32]. It can also significantly improve the maximum contact force, energy absorption, flexural strength, and other properties [33,34]. Therefore, this study also emphasises exploring the enhancement of material properties incorporated with the stacking sequence of the fibre.…”