Mechanical Behavior of Natural Fiber Composite Material

Abstract

The use of natural fibers as reinforcement in polymeric composites is increasing thanks to the improvements in properties that fibers can provide to the merchandise. Composites materials were prepared by compression molding technique with hand layup process. Treatment of fiber with 2% NaOH was carried out in order to improve the interfacial bonds between fiber and matrix leading to better mechanical properties of the spathe-fiber-reinforced composite laminates. Filler loading as 5% by volume of coir fiber or epoxy resin composites have been formulated. The fiber length was chosen as 5mm, 10mm & 15mm and the ratio of epoxy resin: hardener was maintained as 10:0.8. A total three plates with dimension as 300 mm х 300 mm х 4 mm were produced and specimens as per the varied ASTM standard were tested to determine the ultimate tensile strength, strain energy, flexural strength, strain energy and micro hardness value for different configuration. It was observed that the lastingness of epoxy resin/ coir fiber composites was maximum at 15mm fiber length (16.27 N/mm2). The charpy notch impact strength was also maximum at 15mm fiber length (10.87 kJ/m2). The results show good mechanical properties and hint us as a replacement for conventional materials in industrial applications.