INVESTIGATION OF MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF HARDENER RESIN COMPOSITES REINFORCED WITH JUTE AND GLASS FIBERS

Abstract

This thesis investigates the mechanical properties of epoxy resin composites reinforced with jute and glass fibers, aiming to develop eco-friendly materials with industrial applicability. This research focuses on the mechanical properties and performance analysis of jute fiber and glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites, particularly evaluating the effect of fiber orientation under various mechanical tests. Hybrid composites were fabricated using jute fibers oriented at 45°, 60°, and 90°, combined with glass fibers in an epoxy matrix. Mechanical testing included hardness and impact tests to understand the influence of fiber orientation on the overall properties of the composites. The results demonstrated a significant correlation between fiber orientation and the mechanical behavior of the composites. The 60° jute fiber orientation exhibited superior impact strength, attributed to its ability to absorb and dissipate energy more effectively under dynamic loading conditions. On the other hand, the 90° orientation resulted in higher hardness values, indicating better resistance to localized deformation. The 45° orientation showed balanced performance but did not surpass the other configurations in either hardness or impact strength. This study highlights the importance of fiber orientation in designing hybrid composites to achieve desired mechanical properties. By optimizing orientation, it is possible to tailor the composite for specific applications, such as automotive, aerospace, and structural components, where lightweight materials with enhanced strength and durability are crucial. These findings provide valuable insights for future development of sustainable, high-performance composite materials. Biodegradability studies revealed faster degradation rates for composites with higher natural fiber content, reflecting their environmental sustainability. They hold significant potential for applications in automotive, construction, and packaging industries. Future research should focus on optimizing material formulations, scaling up production processes, and conducting long-term performance studies to enhance commercial viability.