Lignocellulose-based hybrid bilayer laminate composite: Part I - Studies on tensile and impact behavior of oil palm fiber-glass fiber-reinforced epoxy resin

The tensile and impact behavior of the oil palm fiber-glass fiber hybrid bilayer laminate composites are studied. The fiber mats are impregnated with epoxy resin and cured at 100 degrees C for 1h followed by post curing at 105 degrees C. The hybridization of the oil palm fibers with glass fibers increases the tensile strength, the Young's modulus, and also the elongation at break of the hybrid composites. A negative hybrid effect is observed for the tensile strength and Young's modulus while a positive hybrid effect was observed for the elongation at break of the hybrid composites. The impact strength of the hybrid composite increases with the addition of glass fibers. The hybrid composites which are impacted at the glass fiber layer exhibit a higher impact strength and a positive hybrid effect compared to those impacted at the oil palm fiber layer. The scanning electron micrographs and photomicrographs of tensile and impact fracture samples are taken to study the failure mechanism and fiber-matrix interface adhesion.