Acoustic, vibration, and viscoelastic performance of wire EDM waste-reinforced natural fiber composites

Abstract

Natural fiber composites are being promoted as cost-effective substitutes for synthetic materials due to its benefits like lightweight, recyclability, cost, and biodegradability. The main objective of the present work is to reuse the electrical discharge machining (EDM) waste wire in coated hemp/ramie fiber epoxy composites. The wire lengths of 1, 3, and 5 cm were used as reinforcement in composites and its effects were studied through mechanical characterizations, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), acoustic study, and vibration behavior. The 5 cm wire length composite (S4) secured better mechanical properties (tensile-26%, impact-33%, hardness-12%). Additionally, S4 displayed increased storage modulus and reduced loss modulus from DMA analysis. The natural frequency has increased by 15%, whereas decrease in damping ratio was observed for S4. The sound absorption coefficient of S4 composite was lower compared to S1 due to the stiffness and lower damping properties of the reinforced wire. The developed composite can provide the necessary strength and stiffness while reducing the overall weight of the vehicle in an automobile industry.