Mechanical characterization and corrosive impacts of natural fiber reinforced composites: An experimental and numerical approach
S M Kalbin Salim Turjo, Md. Foisal Hossain, Muhammed Sohel Rana, Md. Shafiul Ferdous
Abstract
The long-term durability and environmental degradation of the mechanical properties of natural fiber composites are very important in corrosive or humid environments. Therefore, the change in mechanical properties between the normal and corrosive environments was the key parameter for this study. The natural reinforcements were mainly unidirectional jute and banana fiber here. Glass fiber mats and aluminum foil were also used in one case each. Various types of composites were fabricated using different combinations. Multiple studies have examined the mechanical properties. Among those, the tensile and flexural strengths were examined both pre-post immersion in seawater for sixty days until saturation. The matrix began to erode, and micro cracks formed, resulting in a loss of mechanical strength. In addition, a water absorption characteristics curve with a coefficient of diffusion was determined. The tensile and flexural results were verified by finite element analysis. SEM micrographs enabled the identification of the weakening of the fiber/matrix interface induced by water ageing.