Sustainable engineering of human hair fiber-composite in engineering application

Abstract

Abstract The hybrid composite material, resulting from the fusion of human hair and Kevlar 29 synthetic fiber in a 10:1 ratio, reinforced with epoxy resin using the hand layup technique, underwent meticulous mechanical and thermal testing. The investigation encompassed tensile, flexural, and impact property evaluations, elucidating a notable enhancement in mechanical strength with a diminishing synthetic fiber content. Concomitantly, the composite exhibited commendable heat resistance in heat deflection tests, making it potentially suitable for applications in elevated temperature environments. Water absorption properties were scrutinized, revealing a correlation between reduced synthetic fiber content and diminished water absorption, implying heightened durability in diverse conditions. Microstructure analysis through SEM provided intricate insights into the internal composition. In summation, the composite, featuring a higher proportion of natural fibers and a lower proportion of synthetics, demonstrated superior mechanical attributes, optimal heat resistance, and reduced water absorption, showcasing its applicability in automotive and engineering domains, particularly in the fabrication of vehicle panels and components. The aim of this research represents a significant advancement in composite materials, offering a cost-effective solution that balances mechanical strength and thermal resistance. It suggests the potential for high-performance materials by combining natural and synthetic fibers, promising versatility across various applications.