Synthesis and characterization of jute hybrid composites

• Main Author: Mediratta, Rijul
• Other Authors: Sridhar Idapalapati
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2014
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering::Materials::Composite materials
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/61535
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Green composites have been the topic of discussion in recent years in the research community. Their renewability and biodegradability are the key attracting factors as compared to synthetic composites. Synthetic composites are oil-derived and non-renewable. Sustainable development has been gaining increasing importance and green composites are an important factor for in achieving this ideal objective of development. In this research topic, natural composite laminates using treated jute, flax and coconut fibres in different orientations – uniaxial, cross ply, and quasi isotropic – were manufactured using hand lay-up technique. The fibre to matrix volumetric ratio was kept constant at 60:40. Three samples each were tested for tensile, compressive, flexural and bending properties. The results obtained were in conformance or in some cases even higher as compared to literature values. With respect to glass fibre composites with the same matrix and volumetric ratio, the properties were comparable. Thus, natural composites, with their green properties and low price can be a suitable alternative to some of the synthetic fibres currently available in the market. A more broad analysis needs to be conducted further in order to make green composites the material of the future.