Silica nanoparticle-enhanced mechanical properties and energy absorption behavior of hybrid fiber-reinforced polymer composites for structural applications
Megavannan Mani
Abstract
This study investigates the mechanical properties and energy absorption behavior of Hybrid Fibre Reinforced Polymer (HFRP) composites enhanced with silica nanoparticles. HFRPs are widely employed in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and marine due to their remarkable durability, noise-reducing qualities, and structural integrity. The research focuses on the influence of varying silica nanoparticle concentrations on properties such as tensile strength, flexural performance, interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), and quasi-static puncture resistance, all tested according to ASTM standards. The optimal configuration was found to be 1.5 wt% silica nanoparticles, which led to a 4.97 % increase in tensile strength (27.82 MPa) and a 26.91 % improvement in flexural strength (59.01 MPa) compared to the composite with no silica. Additionally, the ILSS and hardness was enhanced by 10.93 MPa and 97 RHN. Quasi-static puncture resistance was assessed using a stainless-steel hemispherical indenter across four composite configurations (0 wt%, 0.5 wt%, 1.5 wt%, and 2 wt%), with the 1.5 wt% composite showing the highest energy absorption (25.08 J) and specific energy absorption (0.611 J/g). These findings underscore the improved mechanical and impact resistance properties of silica-reinforced HFRP composites, indicating their potential for use in demanding applications requiring high structural integrity and energy absorption capabilities. • Silica nanoparticles improve tensile, flexural, and shear strength in hybrid FRP composites. • 1.5 wt% nanoparticles enhance puncture strength and energy absorption. • 1.5 wt% silica nanoparticles boost strength-to-weight ratio for engineering use. • Durability and mechanical properties support aerospace, automotive, and marine use. • Hybrid FRP composites with 1.5 wt% nanoparticles ensure strong long-term performance.