Compression After Impact ( <scp>CAI</scp> ) Behavior After Low‐Velocity Impact ( <scp>LVI</scp> ) of Agro‐Waste‐Based Pineapple Leaf Fiber ( <scp>PALF</scp> ) and Kevlar Fabrics‐Reinforced Polyester Composites for Automotive Applications
Siti Nadia Mohd Bakhori, Noremylia Mohd Bakhori, Mohamad Zaki Hassan, Indran Suyambulingam, Raja Soma Sundaram, Melbi Mahardika
Abstract
ABSTRACT The global production of natural fibers has increased, making them increasingly desirable for composite materials. The unique properties of pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) position it as an outstanding candidate for improving composite structures. This research investigated PALF and Kevlar hybrid composites reinforced with unsaturated polyester, focusing on compression after impact (CAI) and low‐velocity impact (LVI). Using the hand lay‐up technique, six layering configurations comprising PALF and Kevlar ([PPP]s, PPK]s, [PKP]s, [KKK]s, [KKP]s, and [KPK]s) were fabricated and examined under both dry and wet conditions. Prior to impact testing, the wet samples were submerged in water for 48, 72, 96, and 120 h. The [KPK]s configuration exhibited a 476.69% increase in indentation force and a maximum energy absorption of 244.06%, suggesting the significance of the first layer in the design of materials resistant to impact. However, prolonged submersion in water reduced perforation resistance and peak load. A circular indentation pattern was observed from the impact damage, which enlarged with longer immersion times. The maximum CAI stress was achieved by the [KPK]s configuration, which was 28.58% greater than that of the [PPP]s configuration. This study underscores the significance of layering sequence and the characteristics of the first layer for the successful construction of PALF/Kevlar hybrid composites.