Finite Element Analysis of Jute Fibre Made Hybrid Polymer Matrix Composite

Abstract

During last few years, the interest in using natural fibers as reinforcement in polymers has increased significantly. Natural fibers are not only strong and lightweight but also relatively very cheap and bio-degradable. In this work, an investigation is carried out on jute fiber, a natural fiber. Jute fiber has gained interest in the composite field due to its superior specific properties compared to manmade synthetic fibers like glass, Kevlar, asbestos, etc. The present work describes the development and characterization of natural fiber based composites consisting of jute fiber as reinforcement and hybrid resin consisting of general purpose resin and cashew nut shell resin as matrix material. The composites are fabricated using hand lay-up technique. The tensile strength is studied using experimental and numerical analysis. The nature of hybrid matrix at different composition is also studied. The commercial Finite Element Analysis software ANSYS is used for numerical study.