Mechanical property evaluation of sisal-jute-glass fiber reinforced polyester composites

The composite materials are replacing the traditional materials, because of its superior properties such as high tensile strength, low thermal expansion, high strength to weight ratio. The developments of new materials are on the anvil and are growing day by day. Natural fiber composites such as sisal and jute polymer composites became more attractive due to their high specific strength, lightweight and biodegradability. Mixing of natural fiber with Glass-Fiber Reinforced Polymers (GFRPs) are finding increased applications. In this study, sisal-jute-glass fiber reinforced polyester composites is developed and their mechanical properties such as tensile strength, flexural strength and impact strength are evaluated. The interfacial properties, internal cracks and internal structure of the fractured surfaces are evaluated by using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The results indicated that the incorporation of sisal-jute fiber with GFRP can improve the properties and used as a alternate material for glass fiber reinforced polymer composites. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.