Performance Evaluation of Fumed Silica Reinforced Jute Kevlar Hybrid Nanocomposite

Abstract

The demand for natural fiber-based composites sees a sharp rise because of their eco-friendly and cost-effective characteristics. In order to widen its suitability in various structural applications, researchers are motivated to investigate the mechanical performance of natural fiber composites. The present study attempts to develop an eco-friendly and cost-effective material by hybridizing low-cost and biodegradable jute fiber into conventionally available high-cost and high-performance synthetic fibers. The nanofiller fumed silica is incorporated into the composites as a nano additive to further improve the overall performance of the composites. Composites with varying stacking sequences of jute and kevlar fabrics (i.e., Jute-Jute-Jute-Jute [JJJJ], Jute-Kevlar-Kevlar-Jute [JKKJ], Kevlar-Jute-Jute-Kevlar [KJJK], Kevlar-Kevlar-Kevlar-Kevlar [KKKK], and nanofiller proportions (0, 1.5, 3, and 4.5 wt. %) are prepared by using the conventional hand-layup technique. The prepared hybrid composites are investigated in all aspects such as mechanical, wear, fracture, and moisture susceptibility. newlineMechanical characterization shows that the stacking sequences of jute and kevlar and the nanofiller proportion significantly influence the mechanical properties of the composites. The solid particle erosion wear behavior of the composites is studied. It is found that nanofiller incorporation improves the plasticization effect of matrix material and hence possesses ductile behavior during erosion. newlineThe incorporation of nanofiller significantly improves the Mode I fracture toughness by improving the factors affecting Mode I fracture toughness, such as fiber bridging and inter mechanical bonding between the fiber and the matrix. It is observed that interlaminar friction is the key factor influencing the shearing mode (Mode II) of failure, which can be improved by nanofiller incorporated epoxy.