Influence of Stacking Sequence on the Mechanical and Water Absorption Characteristics of Areca Sheath-palm Leaf Sheath Fibers Reinforced Epoxy Composites

Abstract

Hybridization of natural fibers in polymeric composites is used in various applications due to its many advantages. The present study deals with the development of four different tri-layer composites by varying the stacking sequence of areca sheath and palm leaf sheath fibers with epoxy as a matrix by conventional hand lay-up process. The assessment of the developed composite’s properties was done by analyzing tensile, flexural, compression, impact, shore D hardness, water absorption as per ASTM (D 638-14, D790-10, D695-15, D256-10, D2240-15, D570-96, respectively). It was found from the test results that the composites with skin layers of areca sheath and a core layer of palm leaf sheath fibers showed better mechanical properties with a higher ultimate tensile strength of 46 MPa, ultimate flexural strength of 51 MPa, ultimate compression strength of 54 MPa, and reduced water absorption proving its suitability for lightweight applications. A scanning Electron Microscope highlighted the fiber bonding, and void characteristics of the tested composites.

Keywords

• areca sheath fiber
• palm leaf sheath fiber
• hand lay-up
• hybridization
• epoxy composites
• scanning electron microscope