Title: Effects of fibre content on the mechanical properties of short roselle/sisal fibre polyester hybrid composite

Authors: A. Athijayamani, M. Thiruchitrambalam, J.T. Winowlin Jappes, A. Alavudeen

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, A.C. College of Engineering and Technology, Karaikudi 630 004, Tamilnadu, India. ' Dr. Mahalingam College of Engineering & Technology, Udumalai Road, Pollachi – 642003, Tamilnadu, India. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kalasalingam University, Krishnankoil 626 190, Tamilnadu, India. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kalasalingam University, Krishnankoil 626 190, Tamilnadu, India

Abstract: In this paper, the mechanical properties of short roselle and sisal hybrid fibre reinforced polyester composite were analysed based on the wt% for constant length of the fibres. The fractured surfaces of the composite specimens were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A positive hybrid effect was observed in tensile and flexural strength, while the fibre content increase. But a scatter and negative hybrid effect were observed in impact strength, while the fibre content increase. The results suggest that by using correct or optimum weight percentage of roselle and sisal fibres, one can get the better mechanical performance in short roselle and sisal fibre hybrid polyester composites.

Keywords: polymer matrix composites; natural fibres; mechanical properties; scanning electron microscopy; hybrid composites; fibre reinforced composites; polyester composites; fibre content; tensile strength; roselle fibres; flexural strength; impact strength; sisal fibres.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCAET.2011.042362

International Journal of Computer Aided Engineering and Technology, 2011 Vol.3 No.5/6, pp.538 - 546

Published online: 30 Sep 2014 *

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