Mechanical Properties of Epoxy Resin Matrix Composites Reinforced with Jute Fiber, Coconut Coir and Human Hair

Abstract

Presently scientist and engineers are looking for the new generation of materials that are easily biodegradable as well as maintain sustainability to protect our environment. Concept of smart materials and recycling of the waste materials are the key considerations at the face of material scientist. Nowadays natural fiber composites are preferred over conventional synthetic fiber composites in many industrial applications. In this study jute fiber, human hair and coconut coir reinforced composites bonded with epoxy resin were prepared using hand lay-up technique to compare their mechanical properties. For this purpose, an open type wooden mould was used. This study reveal that the jute fiber reinforced composite exhibit better toughness, tensile and shear strength than human hair and coconut coir composites. Also it shows that human hair composite has better hardness property than jute fiber and coconut coir composites. Overall jute fiber and human hair composites show far better mechanical properties than coconut coir composite.