Characterizing tensile and flexural properties of synthetic fibers-reinforced epoxy composite for foot prosthetic application

Abstract

Materials have a direct and critical impact on the performance of prosthetic feet. This study investigates the mechanical properties of E-glass and hybrid (E-glass/carbon) epoxy composites for prosthetic foot applications. Using ANSYS FEA software, four stacking sequences were analyzed for tensile and flexural strength, with stacking configuration the SS-3 ([0c/90/45]s) demonstrating the highest performance. The numerical results were validated against analytical MATLAB solutions, showing excellent agreement. Compared to Homo-polymer-polypropylene, the composite prosthetic foot exhibits superior performance, with increased deformation resistance, energy storage capacity, safety factor, and stiffness, while reducing weight by 30.62 %. This study suggests a cost-effective and efficient method for developing lightweight and durable prosthetic feet that match the comfort and performance constraints of current HPP designs. The selected composite for prosthetic foot production was suggested due to its enhanced mechanical properties and improved functionality.

Keywords

• Prosthetic foot
• Stacking sequence composite laminate
• Tensile simulation
• Flexural simulation
• Mechanical property characterization