Fabrication of Automobile Component Using Hybrid Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composite

In recent years, natural fibers have been used more frequently for their lower weight to strength ratio, low cost, and environmental-friendly attributes. In this work, sisal/kenaf fiber reinforced with epoxy matrix hybrid composite (HC) was manufactured and their mechanical properties were compared with the sisal fiber composite (SFC) and kenaf fiber composite (KFC). Water absorption was carried out to find the moisture absorption capacity of the manufactured HC. HC provides better properties when compared with SFC and KFC. Hybrid composite is suitable for light weight automobile applications.

Automated summary

In recent years, natural fibers have been increasingly used for their lower weight to strength ratio, low cost, and environmental-friendly attributes. In this study, a hybrid composite (HC) was manufactured using sisal/kenaf fiber reinforced with epoxy matrix, and its mechanical properties were compared with sisal fiber composite (SFC) and kenaf fiber composite (KFC). The results showed that HC exhibited better properties, making it suitable for lightweight automobile applications.