Influence of fiber stacking sequences and matrix materials on mechanical and vibration behavior of jute/carbon hybrid composites

Abstract

Purpose The study aims to investigate the influence of fabric hybridization, stacking sequences and matrix materials on the tensile strength and damping behavior of jute/carbon reinforced hybrid composites. Design/methodology/approach The hybrid composites were fabricated with different sequences of fabric plies in epoxy and polyester matrix using a hand layup technique. The tensile and vibration characteristics were evaluated on the hybrid laminated composite models using finite element analysis (FEA), and the results were validated experimentally according to ASTM standards. The surface morphology of the fractured specimens was studied using the scanning electron microscope. Findings The experimental results revealed that the position of jute layers in the hybrid composites has a significant influence on the tensile strength and damping behavior. The hybrid composite with jute fiber at the surface sides and carbon fibers at the middle exhibited higher tensile strength with superior damping properties. Further, it is found that the experimental results are in good coherence with the FEA results. Originality/value The less weight and low-cost hybrid composites were fabricated by incorporating the jute and carbon fabrics in interply configurations. The influences of fabric hybridization, stacking arrangements and matrix materials on the tensile and vibration behavior of jute/carbon hybrid composites have been numerically evaluated and the results were experimentally validated.