Development and Investigation of Properties of Jute Linen Epoxy Composite Laminates

Abstract

ABSTRACT newlineThe current focus of the research fraternity is on developing an innovative material holding nature friendly constituents besides providing good characteristic properties. To retain efficacy in structural applications, any newly developed materials need to possess multi-facet qualities like mechanical stability, adequate stiffness, and superior load bearing capability. Natural fibres play a vital role in fabricating green laminate composite which is a key material in confronting current environmental predicament. In recent times, polymers have been widely used in different sectors from consumable industries to sophisticated component manufacturing units. newlineGiven these perspectives, the present study deals with the development of polymer laminate composites utilising jute fabrics and linen fabrics as reinforcements with epoxy resin as matrix. Laminates were fabricated using hand lay-up technique in different layer sequences (total of 5 layers) and different weight percentages (total of 20 wt.%) of jute fabrics and linen fabrics. Various characterisations such as mechanical, dynamic mechanical, thermal, and water absorption characteristics were quantified for the formulated laminates in accordance with ASTM standards. The dynamic mechanical characteristics and thermal stability of the laminates were determined using dynamic mechanical analysis and thermogravimetric analysis respectively. newlineFurthermore, the industrial by-product fumed silica was added in different weight fractions (1 wt.%, 2 wt.%, and 3 wt.%) to J10L10 laminate containing 10 wt.% jute and 10 wt.% linen in alternate sequence of linen and jute fabrics for enriching the laminate s properties. Fumed silica s hybridisation effect on mechanical properties, dynamic mechanical characteristics, thermal stability, and vibration analysis of J10L10 hybrid laminates was evaluated. The vibration analysis was executed to assess laminate s natural frequency, from which the damping factor was computed using half power bandwidth method. newlineix newlineAbrasive water jet (AWJ) machi