MECHANICAL PROPERTY EVALUATION OF HYBRID POLYMER

MATRIX COMPOSITE BY EFFECT OF FIBER ORIENTATION

(Or)
EFFECT OF FIBER ORIENTATION IN HYBRID POLYMER MATRIX
COMPOSITE
ABSTRACT
Now-a-days, the natural fibers from renewable natural resources offer the potential
to act as a reinforcing material for polymer composites alternative to the use of
glass, carbon and other man-made fibers. Among various fibers, coir and bamboo
is most widely used natural fiber due to its advantages like easy availability, low
production cost and satisfactory mechanical properties. For a composite material,
its mechanical behavior depends on many factors such as fiber content, orientation,
types, length etc. Attempts have been made in this research work to study the effect
of fiber orientation on the mechanical behavior of coir and bamboo fiber reinforced
epoxy composites. Composites composition fiber loading (25wt%) and three
different fiber orientation (0, 30 and 60) are fabricated using simple hand lay-up
technique. It has been observed that there is a significant effect of fiber loading and
orientation on the mechanical behavior of coir and bamboo fiber reinforced epoxy
composites. Finally, the morphology of fractured surfaces is examined using
scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1Overview of composites
Composites, plastics and ceramics are the main material that is being used by the
present world. Composites have a more significant advantage because these are
made by engineering processes and mainly helpful to reduce the weight and hence
to increase the efficiency. Composite material consists of two or more materials in
a different phase. In traditional engineering impurities in metal can be represented
in different phase and by definition considered as a composite, but are not
considered as a composite due to modulus of strength is nearly same as that of pure
metal. Oldest known composites were natural composites, wood consist of
cellulose fiber in lignin composites, human bone can be considered as a osteons
embedded in an interstitial bone matrix.
1.2 Definitions of Composite
Composites are materials consisting of two or more chemically distinct
constituents, on a macro-scale, having a distinct interface separating them. One or
more discontinuous phases are embedded in a continuous phase to form a
composite [1]. Composite mainly formed from two distinguished material one of
which is in the particle or fiber or in sheet form are combined with other material
known as a matrix. Fiber in the composites acts as a principle load carrying
member due to its high strength modules while matrix in the composites acts as a
load transfer medium between the fibers. Due to more ductility of the composite it
gives matrix high toughness. The definition given by a different author can be
summarized as follows.

1.3 Uses of composites

Due to weight saving advantage composites are mainly used in applications like
automobile and aircraft where even a small amount in reduction of weight also
count. Some uses of composites are described below:
i. In aircraft it is used in the door skin on the stabilizer box fin, in elevators,
rudder, loading gear, tail, spoiler, flap body etc. 20-30% reduction in weight
is possible by the use of composites.
ii. In aerospace it uses to make space shuttle, space station where it comprises
the function of weight reduction. It is used because it shows low value of coefficient of thermal expansion.
iii. In automobile it uses to make body frame, chassis components, engine
components, drive shaft, leaf spring, exterior body part etc. and it performs
different functions such as due to its high stiffness it has good damage
tolerance, good surface finish and appearance, weight reduction hence higher
fuel efficiency.
iv. In sporting goods it uses to make tennis and racquetball, racquets, golf club
shaft, head bicycle frame, skis, canoe helmets, fishing poles tent poles etc. It
is used because it helps to design weight reduction vibration damping design
and has high flexibility.
v. In electrical it used to made printed circuit board, computer housing,
insulators, radomes battery plates. And it is used because of portable weight
saving.
1.4 Types of Composites

a) On the basis of matrix material

b) On the basis of reinforcement
Composites material formed from two different materials, matrix and fibrous
system. And on the basis of matrix used composites may be categories into three
different categories.
1. Metal matrix composites
2. Ceramic matrix composites
3. Polymer matrix composite
1. Metal matrix composites:
Composites material consists of two or more physical or chemically distinct
phases. When metal is used as a matrix material with any of the reinforcing
material it is termed as the metal matrix composites. It shows improved strength,
stiffness, creep, hardness, high fatigue resistance and wear and tear resistance than
other composites. Due to above mentioned reason it is used in the combustion
chamber nozzle (in the rocket, space shuttle), housings, tubing, cables, heat
exchangers, structural members etc.
2. Ceramic matrix composites:
Ceramic matrix composites are a subgroup of composite material which contains
ceramics as a matrix material. Ceramic matrix composites have ceramic matrix
such as calcium, alumina and alumino silicate reinforced by silicon carbide. They
possess high hardness, strength high service temperature limits for ceramics, low
density and chemical inertness [2].
3. Polymer matrix composites:

When different types of polymeric material use as a matrix material to make

composite it is known as the polymer matrix composites. Polymers are the
macromolecule formed by the linking together of a large number of smaller units
know as monomers. It shows high tensile strength, high stiffness, fracture
toughness, good abrasion resistance, puncher resistant, corrosion resistant and low
cost. It shows low thermal resistance and has high co-efficient of thermal
expansion. It is used in the field of automobile where we need damping and good
shock absorbing function. It cannot be used in high temperature application due to
its high CTE. It is further divided into two types.
a) Thermosetting polymer matrix composites.
b) Thermoplastic polymer matrix composites.
(a) Thermosetting polymer matrix composites: Usually thermostats are the
material usually liquid or malleable prior to curing and designed to mold into their
final form. Once it gets its final form it will not melt due to its well-developed 3D
bonded structure. Generally used thermosetting polymers are epoxy and cyanate
ester.
(b) Thermoplastics polymer matrix composites: Thermoplastic polymer becomes
malleable and pliable above a certain range of temperature and returns to its
original form below that temperature. These polymers have high molecular weight
and often used in low temperature applications.
Latest technology not only involves information about new product but also in
making at low cost so, for that particular reason before making any kind of
polymer matrix based composites individual should know what is the advantages
and disadvantages of this matrix over one another. Thermosetting resin is the first

choice of any company nowadays due to its availability, ease of processing, the
existence of large database and low material cost. Thermosetting resins like
epoxies are available in a low viscosity liquid form that has excellent flow
properties to facilitate the penetration of fiber bundles and wetting of fiber surface.
The manufacturing cost of the thermoplastic composite is high in comparison to
the thermosets due to its longer shelf life, hygroscopic nature and need of
refrigeration before processing. Quality control in thermoset is much more difficult
because it contains large no of ingredient such as, base epoxies, curing agent,
catalyst, flow control agent and property modifier. The toughness of the
thermoplastics is more than that of thermosets due to these thermoplastics shows
good resistance to delamination. Thermoplastics are the high molecular weight
material because of it before processing it ether to be heated at high temperature or
should be treated with a polar solvent to lower its viscosity for ease of processing.
Processing cost is also high in case of thermoplastics because it needs high
pressure and temperature for processing.
Types of composites on the basis of reinforcement
1) Particle reinforced composites
2) Fiber reinforced composites
(1) Particle reinforced composite:
Particle reinforced composites comprises of discrete uniformly dispersed particles
of a hard brittle material which are surrounded by a softer more ductile matrix.
Reinforcing particles includes glasses and ceramics such as small mineral particles
such as aluminum

and amorphous material including carbon black and polymers [3]. Particles are
used to increase the modulus of the matrix, to decrease the ductility of the matrix,
or to decrease the permeability of the matrix. They are also used to produce lowcost composites.
(2) Fiber reinforced composite:
Fiber reinforced composites are advanced composites which consists of a polymer
matrix reinforced with thin diameter fiber. If the reinforcement is in the form of
fiber, then the composite material is called fiber reinforced composite. Fiber
reinforced composites are advanced composites which consists of a polymer
matrix reinforced with thin diameter fiber. A fiber is characterized by its length
being much greater compared to its cross-sectional dimensions. It is again divided
into two types:

Short fiber reinforced composites: It consists of a matrix reinforced by a

dispersed phase in form of discontinuous fibers (length < 100 diameter).

Long-fiber reinforced composites: It consists of a matrix reinforced by a

dispersed phase in form of continuous fibers.

1.5 Fibers
Fiber is the other main constituent in the composite system, due to its elastic nature
it gives tensile strength to the composites. Figure 1 shows the classification of
fibers [3].

Natural fiber
On the basis of origin natural fiber can be divided in to three categories
a) Vegetable fiber
b) Animal fiber
c) Mineral fiber

(a) Vegetable fiber

These are the material basically cellular in form and structure with the degree of
inherent strength and stiffness built in naturally due to the geometrical internal
structure. Basic cellular element in vegetable fiber is cellulose. It is a natural

polymer and it posses high strength and stiffness per unit weight. Cellulose also
forms a long fiber like cell structure and it is found in all parts of plants like stem,
seed and leaf.
(b) Animal fiber
Animal fibers are directly taken from the animal body (mammals) example: animal
hair, silk fiber from silkworms, and fiber from bird feathers.
(c) Mineral fiber
Mineral fibers are the strongest fibers known because they are formed with lower
number of surface defect. Most commonly used fiber is Asbestos.
Now-a-days, the interest in natural fiber reinforced polymer composites is
increasing rapidly due to its many advantages over other man-made fibers. The
main advantages of natural fiber composites are:
Production cost is low and these are easily available.
Due to its low specific weight, it has higher specific strength and stiffness
than glass fiber.

The production requires little energy, and CO2 is used while oxygen is given
back to the environment therefore it is a renewable source.
Low wages countries accept natural fiber because product can be produced

with low investment at low cost.

It acquires healthier working condition, reduced wear of tooling and no skin
irritation.
It can be recycle while, glass causes problem in combustion furnaces.
It has Good thermal and acoustic insulating properties.
Among various natural fibers, jute is considered as one of the most potential
reinforcement for polymer composites due to its many advantages such as its easy
availability, its low production cost and satisfactory mechanical properties as
compared to others fibers. For a composite material, its mechanical behavior
depends on many factors such as fiber content, orientation, types, length etc.
Attempts have been made in this research work to study the effect of fiber loading
and orientation on the mechanical behavior of jute fiber reinforced epoxy
composites. The morphology of fractured surfaces is examined using scanning
electron microscopy (SEM).

CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE SURVEY
This chapter outlines the recent work done in the field of mechanical properties of

natural fiber reinforced composites. For a composite material, its mechanical

behaviors depend upon many factors such as fiber content, fiber orientation, fiber
loading. Experimental investigation carried out by Biswas et al. [4] revealed that
the composites with 30 fiber orientation shows better micro-hardness, tensile
strength, flexural strength, inter-laminar shear strength and impact strength.
Mechanical properties of the fiber reinforced composites are controlled by the
elastic properties and the strength of the matrix, the fibers and fiber-matrix bond,
which governs the stress transfer [5, 6]. Green strength measurement is carried out
by Geethamma et al. [7] to measure the extent of fiber orientation. The efficiency
of the stress transfer is higher when fibers are aligned in parallel to the direction of
application of force. Ren et al. [8] studied the effect of fluctuation of fiber
orientation on tensile properties of flax silver reinforced green composites. It has
been reported that although it is well-known that tensile strength of unidirectional
composites decreases with increasing fiber orientation angle, the tensile strength
obtained in the study did not show any appreciable relation to the statistical
properties of measured fiber orientation angles such as standard and average
deviation. Mansur et al. [9] described that the inclusion of bamboo mesh imparts
significant toughness and ductility to the cement mortar and considerably increases
its tensile, flexural and impact strengths. However, such enhancements, particularly
in tension are related with wide cracking. Poor bond strength between mortar and
bamboo and low elastic modulus of bamboo are the factors held responsible. The
volume changes of bamboo caused poor bond strength and it can be improved by
applying some cheap water sealing agent. Tungjitpornkull and Sombatsompop [10]
were manufactured E-glass fiber reinforced wood/poly (vinyl chloride) (WPVC)
composites either by compression molding or by twin-screw
extrusion process, and the mechanical properties of the composites from these two
processes were then compared. The tensile and flexural modulli for particular fiber

content in WPVC composites were much higher than those with the twin-screw
extrusion technique. The composites with 0 fiber orientation angle were found to
provide the maximum mechanical properties, the reason being related with a
continuity of fiber length to bearing the applied load and minimum fiber-end
defects.
Garkhail et al. [11] investigated the influence of fiber content and fiber length on
stiffness,

strength

and

impact

strength

of

natural-fiber-mat-reinforced

thermoplastics, and compared with data for glass mat reinforced thermoplastics.
The effect of use of maleic-anhydride grafted PP has also been studied in order to
obtain improved interfacial adhesion. Luo and Netravali [12] studied the effect of
fiber loading on the tensile and flexural properties of the green composite prepared
with pineapple fiber. It has been found that the tensile and flexural strength of the
green composite increased with increase in fiber loading along the longitudinal
direction whereas, strength decreases in transvers direction with the increase in
fiber loading. Schneider and Karmaker [13] reported that polypropylene
composites prepared from jute fiber exhibit better mechanical properties than kenaf
fiber. Mohanty et al. [14] reported that the tensile strength of BAK is enhanced by
more than 40% with alkali treated jute fabrics. Chawla and Bastos et.al [15]
studied the effect of fiber volume fraction on Young's modulus, maximum tensile
strength and impact strength of untreated jute fiber in unsaturated vinyl ester resin.
A number of experiments carried out in the past by different researchers for study
of effect of different parameters on the mechanical properties of the natural fiber
(sisal, cotton, coir, bamboo and jute henequen) composite [16-19]. Xian et al. [20]
studied the mechanical properties such as tensile, compressive, flexural and inter
laminar shear strength of bamboo fiber reinforced composites. In this study
composites with three, five and seven layer of unidirectional bamboo fiber were
fabricated. Tensile and flexural tests on coir and bamboo - epoxy composites were

carried out by Sapuan and Leenie [21]. Jute vinyl ester composites possess better
strength than wood composites and some plastics [22]. Interfacial properties of the
coir /epoxy composites were studied from scanning electron micrograph taken
from fracture surfaces and these properties is compared with the glass fibers
composites[23].
Mansur and Aziz studied bamboo-mesh reinforced cement composites, and found
that these reinforcing materials could enhance the strength and toughness of the
cement matrix, and increase its tensile, flexural, and impact strengths significantly.
On the other hand, jute fabric-reinforced vinyl ester composites were tested for the
evaluation of mechanical properties and compared with wood composite, and it
was found that the jute fiber composite has better strengths than wood composites.
A pulp fibre reinforced thermoplastic composite was investigated and found
to have a combination of stiffness increased by a factor of 5.2 and its strength
increased by a factor of 2.3 relative to the virgin polymer. Information on the usage
of coir and bamboo fibers in reinforcing polymers is limited in the literature. In
dynamic mechanical analysis, Lalyet al. have investigated coir and bamboo fiber
reinforced vinyl ester composites and found that the optimum content of coir and
bamboo fiber is 40%. Mechanical properties of coir and bamboofibercement
composites were investigated physically and mechanically by Corbiere-Nicollieret
al. It was reported that kraft pulped coir and bamboo fiber composite has good
flexural strength.
In addition, short coir and bamboo fiber reinforced vinyl ester composite was
studied by Pothanetall the study concentrated on the effect of fiber length and fiber
content. The maximum tensile strength was observed at 30 mm fiber length while
maximum impact strength was observed at 40 mm fiber length. Incorporation of
40% untreated fibers provides a 20% increase in the tensile strength and a 34%
increase in impact strength. Joseph et al. tested coir and bamboo fiber and glass

fiber with varying fiber length and fiber content as well. Luo and Netravali studied
the tensile and flexural properties of the green composites with different pineapple
fibre content and compared with the virgin resin. Bamboo fibre is fairly coarse and
inflexible. It has good strength, durability, ability to stretch, affinity for certain
dyestuffs and resistance to deterioration in seawater. Bamboo ropes and twines are
widely used for marine, agricultural, shipping, and general industrial use.
Belmeres et al.found that bamboo, henequen, and palm fibre have very similar
physical, chemical, and tensile properties. Cazaurang et al.carried out a systematic
study on the properties of henequen fibre and pointed out that these fibres have
mechanical properties suitable for reinforcing thermoplastic resins. Ahmed et al.
carried out research work on filament wound cotton fibre reinforced for reinforcing
high- density polyethylene (HDPE) resin. Khalid et al. also studied the use of
cotton fibre reinforced epoxy composites along with glass fibre reinforced
polymers. Fuad et al. investigated the new type woodbased filler derived from oil
palm wood flour (OPWF) for bio-based thermoplastics composites by thermo
gravimetric analysis and the results are very promising.
Schneider and Karmaker developed composites using jute and kenaffibre and
polypropylene resins and they
mechanical

properties

reported

that

jute

fibre

provides

better

than kenaffibre. Sreekala et al. performed one of the

pioneering studies on the mechanical performance of treated oil palm fiberreinforced composites. They studied the tensile stress-stain behavior of composites
having 40% by weight fiber loading. Isocyanine-, silane-, acrylated, latex coated
and peroxide-treated composite withstood tensile stress to higher strain
level.Isocyanate treated, silane treated, acrylated, acetylated and latex coated
composites showed yielding and high extensibility. Tensile modulus of the
composites at 2% elongation showed slight enhancement upon mercerization and
permanganate treatment. The elongation at break of the composites with
chemically modified fiber was attributed to the changes in the chemical structure

and bond ability of the fiber. Alkali treated (5%) bamboo-vinyl ester biocomposite
showed about 22% increase in tensile strength. Ichazo et al. found that adding
silane treated wood flour to PP produced a sustained increase in the tensile
modulus and tensile strength of the composite. Joseph and Thomas studied the
effect of chemical treatment on the tensile and dynamic mechanical properties of
short bamboo fiber reinforced low density polyethylene composites.
A feather is one of the light outgrowths that form the external covering of the body
of a bird, for example- Gallus domesticus (chicken). Almost every part of a
chicken can be used including the feathers (Want to Save a Tree? 2002). Feather
fiber is a byproduct of these feathers.
Walter Schmidt, a scientist with the United States Department of Agriculture
(USDA), attempted to make feather fiber by trying to grind chicken feathers into a
powder. This form of grinding was too tough to do, so the feathers were cut into
short units. Schmidt concluded that the fibers were very tough and wondered why
no one had used them before (Barrodale, 2003). Schmidt also discovered that
feather fibers have many qualities including a higher absorbency level as feather
fibers distribute moisture more evenly than most other types of fibers (Gale Group,
2004). Schmidt and his colleagues developed an efficient mechanical method to
separate the more valuable barb fibers (plumage) from the less useful central chaff
or quill. Though softer, the keratin fibers in the barbs are stronger and less brittle
than those in the quill and therefore have a much broader range of applications
(Martindale, 2004). The new fiber separation process uses less water, energy, and
chemicals than for other fibers, said Schmidt (Gale Group, 2004).
Walter Schmidt and research colleague, Justin Barone, discovered that
feathers can be added to various products to strengthen the product while reducing
weight (Durham, 2004). Some potential uses for feather fiber are medicines,
dashboards, toys, and even as a substance in foods since the fiber has no flavor and

takes on the flavor of whatever other material is added (Barrodale, 2003). Other
products that may be made with feather fiber include paper, disposable diapers,
clothing, and insulation. Recently, scientists have even discovered that recycled
feather fibers may potentially have a use in cleaning up radioactive waste because
of the products potential as an absorbent of heavy metals and even radioactive
material such as strontium (Kaplan, 2002). The technology developed by Schmidt
to turn chicken feathers into an industrial fiber recently received a third place
award at the Worlds Best Technologies 2004 conference in Arlington, Texas.
Three companies- Feather fiber Corporation of Nixa, Missouri; Maxim of
Pasadena, California; and Tyson Foods, of Springdale, Arkansas- have licensed the
new feather fiber technology from the USDA and are already sending samples to
scientists around the world (Durham, 2004).
David Emerys company, Feather fiber Corporation, is one of three in the
nation that has the licensed technology. Emerys company separates feather from
quill, allowing the lightweight but strong feathers to be used. The key to easy
separation lies in the fact that quills are bulkier and heavier. There have been many
new uses discovered for feather fiber by scientists around the country, and research
using feather fiber continues. Recently, scientists such as Abe Widra have
discovered that hair and possibly other sources of keratin can be broken down into
a liquid keratin (alpha keratose) which can be used as a blood plasma expander.
Other scientists are also researching the benefits and uses of this liquid keratin
because of the keratins properties and strength (Widra, 2001) & (Emery, 2005).

Fiber reinforced composites show strong anisotropic mechanical behavior

due to their fiber orientations. These orientations cause a variety of failure
mechanisms, which are more complex under multi-axial loading conditions.
Therefore, continuous effort has been made to make quasi-isotropic composite
materials with controlling parameters, such as the orientation adjacent plies,

stacking sequence and the properties of the constituents [3]. K.M.Kaleemulla et.al
[4] focused the study on influence of fiber orientation and fiber content of epoxy
resin components on mechanical properties. The main aim of the present
investigation was to study the influence of fiber orientation on mechanical
properties and also the influence on varying weight percentage of filler material in
the composites.

CHAPTER III
METHODOLOGY

Objectives of the Present Research Work

Keeping in view of the current status of research the following objectives are set in
the scope of the present research work.
1. Fabrication of coir/bamboo fibre reinforced epoxy composites
2. To study the influence of fibre length and fibre loading on physical,
mechanical and water absorption behaviour of composites.

3. To study the surface morphology using SEM study.

4. To select the best alternative from a set of alternative materials using
TOPSIS method.
DIFFRENT ORIENTATION
The 3 Basic Types of Composites are generally identified as:
1.) Particle-Reinforced (Aggregates);
2.) Fiber-Reinforced (Continuous Fiber or Chopped Fiber); and
3.) Natural Composites (Examples: Wood and Bone).

Fig 1.5 different forms of composite materials

i).Particle-Reinforced (Aggregate) Composites
Particle-Reinforced Composites include the most used (by weight) construction
material in the world - Concrete. Sand (Fine Particles) and Gravel (Coarse
Particles) compose from 60% to 75% of standard concrete.
ii).Fiber-Reinforced Composites

Fiber-Reinforced Composites often aim to improve the strength to weight

and stiffness to weight ratios (i.e. desirelight-weight structures that are strong and
stiff!). Glass or Metal Fibers are generally embedded in polymericmatrices.
Fibers are available in 3 basic forms:
Continuous Fibers are long, straight and generally layed-up parallel to each
other.
Chopped Fibers are short and generally randomly distributed (fiberglass).
Woven Fibers come in cloth form and provide multidirectional strength.

Fig 1.6 Schematic Illustration of Fiber Types: Unidirectional, Chopped & Woven.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
COIR
Coconut fibre is obtained from the husk of the fruit of the coconut palm. The fruits
aredehusked with on a spike and after retting, the fibresaresubtracted from the husk
with beating and washing. Thefibres are strong, light and easily withstand heat and
saltwater. The combined use of coconut and coirshortfibres seem to delayed
restrained plastic shrinkagecontrolling crack development at earlyages.Coir is an
abundant,versatile, renewable, cheap, and biodegradablefibre used for making a
wide variety ofproducts. Coir has also been tested as filler or reinforcement in
different composite materials.

BAMBOO COMPOSITES:

Fibers as received are washed with distilled water to remove the

surface dirt present in the fibers and then the fibers are soaked in NaOH solution
(1:2 by volume) and one kilogram of the fibre is soaked in 1 litre of the solution
.Then the fibers are designated as washed fibers. The soaked fibers are dried under
shade for about 48 hrs .then the treated fibers are dried under sun at temperature of
500c for 6hrs.then the treated fibbers are straightened and cut to a length of 3cm
each.

Vinyl ester
The term 'vinyl esters' is applied to many different types of resins. Three
reactions are generally used for the synthesis of vinyl esters:
The vinyl esterification of dicarboxylic acids with idols or their functional
derivatives;
Self-vinyl esterification reactions of hydroxycarboxylic acids and their
derivatives;
Ring opening polymerization reactions of lactones and cyclic esters.
These hydrocarbon resins can be made in unsaturated and saturated forms.
Unsaturated vinyl ester resins are less flexible and less compatible with
aromatic cross-linking agents. These vinyl esters are primarily used in composite
structures where they can be reinforced with fillers such as glass fibers.
Vinyl ester resins made by vinyl esterification of malefic and ophthalmic
anhydrides and propylene glycol increase resin flexibility. Unsaturated glycols can
be used to increase the rigidity of the cured resin by permitting additional crosslinking. Saturated vinyl ester resins are most frequently used in the manufacture of
fibers and films. The most prevalent of these vinyl esters is poly (ethylene
terephthalate).
Vinyl

ester

resins are unsaturated resins formed

by

the

reaction

of dibasic organic acids and polyhydric alcohols. Vinyl ester resins are used
in sheet moulding compound, bulk moulding compound and the toner of laser
printers. Wall panels fabricated from vinyl ester resins reinforced with fiberglass
so-called fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) are typically used in restaurants,
kitchens, restrooms and other areas that require washable low-maintenance walls.

LE:

Characteristics

Vinyl ester Resin

Flexural Strength

Good

Tensile Strength

Good

Elongation %

Good

Water Absorption

Good

Hardness

Good

Pot Life

4 7 Minutes

Working Time

20 30 Minutes

Above Waterline

Yes

Below Waterline

Yes

Major Construction

Yes

General Repairs

Yes

Shelf Life

18 24 Months

Catalyst

MEKP

Cure Time

6 8 Hours

TAB

VINYL ESTER PROPERTIES AND CHARACTERISTICS

Water, a by-product of etherification reactions, is continuously removed,
driving the reaction to completion. The use of unsaturated vinyl esters and
additives such as styrene lowers the viscosity of the resin. The initially liquid resin
is converted to a solid by cross-linking chains.
This is done by creating free radicals at unsaturated bonds, which propagate
in a chain reaction to other unsaturated bonds in adjacent molecules, linking them
in the process.
HARDNER

Hardner is a colorless liquid. The pure chemical is unstable peroxide capable of

releasing molecular oxygen. It is shock, sunlight, and heat sensitive, and undergoes
explosive decomposition at 110C.
It can also undergo spontaneous ignition or decomposition if mixed with readily
ox disable organic or flammable materials or chemical reactants. Because of this
high reactivity, it is sold commercially as a colorless liquid mixture of
approximately 60% hardner and 40% diluents that may be any combination of
dimethyl phthalate, cyclohexanone peroxide, or diallyl phthalate (ACG99,Zei93).
The odor threshold is not known.
FABRICATION
MOULD PREPARATION:
First of all the mould for the composite is prepared. We have
to prepare moulds of size 300 x 300 x 15 mm. for the preparation
of required composite. A clean smoothed surfaced wooden board
is taken and washed thoroughly. We give a cover to the wooden
board with a non-reactive thin plastic sheet. Then the glass of
equal size (thickness 3mm) that of the mould is taken to cover the
mould after the resin and fibers are placed in the mould and the
wax is used in the sides of the mould surface to avoid the leaking
of resins out of the mould.

Fig. mould for manufacturing

FIBER PREPARATION:
Raw Coir and bamboo fiber was brought and cleaned with water
and dried. And the Coir and bamboo fiber was kept straight for
hours to make it without shrinkages Then the fibers were cut by
the knife to the required dimension and with different angles. The
quantity and weight of fiber selected each ply is same

Fig fiber preparation in different pieces.

MATRIX TECHNIQUE:
The fibers were cut to size from the Coir and bamboo fiber
bundle. The appropriate numbers of fiber plies were cut with the
required direction. Then the plies were chosen based on the
orientation(inclient 300 ,00 ,450) we planned. General polyester
resin, hardner were mixed with required proportion by using glass
rod in a bowl. Care was taken to avoid formation of bubbles.
Because the air bubbles were trapped in matrix may result failure
in the material. The subsequent fabrication process consisted of
first putting a releasing film on the mould surface. Next a polymer
coating was applied on the sheets. Then fiber ply of one kind was
put and proper was done. Then resin was again applied, next to it
fiber ply of another kind was put and rolled. Rolling was done
using cylindrical mild steel rod. On the top of the last ply a
polymer coating is done which serves to ensure a good surface
finish. Finally a releasing sheet was put on the top, a light rolling
was carried out. Then a 20 kg weight was applied on the
composite. It was left for 2 to 3hrs to allow sufficient time for
curing and subsequent hardening.
General overview:
The laminated composites sheets were fabricated from Coir and bamboo fiber, with
two plies and they are laid in different orientation and the resin used was polyester
resin. Ten different natural laminated composites are made i.e. Coir and bamboo l
fiber in the direction of After the laminated composites fabrication cutting of the
specimen is done in the desired shape to test the mechanical properties of the
natural laminated composite fiber. The tensile and flexural testing of the samples

were done by UTM (universal testing machine). and the impact strength were
found in impact test machine by using charphy tequichnice for plastics.
Initially the pattern has to be placed on the ground or table,
then a surface should be made and apply paraffin (or) wax on the
surface to easily remove the composite material

after finishing

the procedures, here for this manufacturing process OHP sheet is

used as that surface. In composite material prepared of 1litre
resin and 100ml of hardner this things stirred by 15 minutes Apply
a coating of general vinyl ester resin on the surface that is wax
coated and allow sufficient time.

Then randomly spread the

fibers on the resin surface in the discontinuous and random

manner. Then after sufficient time apply the mixture of general
resin and as binding agents on the surface of the fiber. Close the
resin mixture coated surface with a laminated sheet and then
with glass for smooth surface finish and for perfect heat transfer
while reaction between resin mixtures and coir fiber. The
impregnated layers were placed in the resin matrix (30cm30cm)
and pressed heavily for 1h before removal. After 1h, the
composites were removed from the mold and cured at room
temperature for 24 h. The same procedure was followed to
prepare different types of composites Then this setup is let to be
standstill for approximately 4hours.The finished product is then
procured.

Mould composite

CALCULATION:
For the preparation of the composite we calculate the percentage
of fibers, polymer and hardner required from the table we come
to know about the amounts accurately.
MATERIAL
RESIN WITH
HARDNER
COIR WITH BAMBOO

TYPE
LIQUID

PERCENTAGE
75%

LONG FIBER
TOTAL

25%
100%

FIG. Manufactured components

ASTM PATTERN SPECIFICATION

EXPERIMENT
The hybrid reinforced fiber is tested by Universal
Testing machine, Hardness testing machine, impact testing
machine. Its helps to identify the properties of the composites
reinforced fiber. The following test are carried out by using
above machines
(i) TENSILE TEST
(ii) HARDNESS TEST
(iii) IMPACT TEST
(iv)FLEXURAL TEST

HARDNESS TEST:
The Rockwell Hardness test is a hardness measurement based on the
net increase in depth of impression as a load is applied. Hardness
covers several properties: resistance to deformation, resistance to
friction and abrasion.
The term refers to stiffness or temper, or to resistance to scratching,
abrasion, or cutting. The greater the hardness of the metal, the greater
resistance it has to deformation.
By measuring the depth of the indentation, progressive levels of
forcing are measurable on the same piece.
The indenter may either be a steel ball of some specified diameter or a
spherical diamond-tipped cone of 120 angle and 0.2 mm tip radius,
called Brale. The type of indenter and the test load determine the
hardness scale (A, B, C, etc)

 The hardness number is expressed by the symbol HR and the scale

designation.
ADVANTAGES:
Hardness can be read directly in a single step.It can be used on metals
as well as plastic materials.

SPECIFICATION:

SCALE

SYMBOL

INDENTER

INDENTING

SPECIMEN

LOAD
L

HRL

inch diameter 100 kgf

steel ball

Hybrid
p

com

posite material

TESTING PROCEDURE:
The material to be tested is held on the anvil of the machine and then the
suitable indenter is to be fixed on the chuck.
The test piece is raised by turning the hand wheel,till it just touches the
indenter.
A minor load of 10kg is applied to seat the specimen.Then the dial indicator
is set at zero.Now the major load 100kgf is applied to the indenter to
produce a deeper indentation.
After the indicating pointer has come to rest,the major load is removed.
Now indicates the Rockwell hardness number on the appropriate scale of the
dial.

Rockwell Hardness Number (RHN) : 126

IMPACT TEST
An impact test is a dynamic test in which a selected specimen which is
usually notched is struck and broken by a single blow in a specially designed
machine. Using an impact machine, the energy absorbed while breaking the
specimen is measured
In our laboratory, impact testing is done on the Tinius Olsen Impact testing
machine, and consists of two tests:

1. Charpy Test
2. Izod Test

CHARPY TEST:
The purpose of the impact test is to measure the toughness, or energy
absorption capacity of the materials. The principal difference between two tests is
the manner in which the specimen is supported. In the Charpy test the specimen is
supported as a simple beam with a notch in the center. The specimen is supported
so that the notch is on the vertical face away from the point of impact. Figure 2 and
3 show the dimensions of the Charpy test specimen and the positions of the
striking edge of the pendulum and the specimen in the anvil.

IZOD TEST:
In the Izod test, the specimen is held on one end and is free on the other end.
This way it forms a cantilever beam. Figures 4 and 5 show the dimensions of the
Izod test specimen and the positions of the striking edge of the pendulum and the
specimen in the anvil. In this case the notch is just at the edge of the supporting
vise and facing into the direction of impact. As with the Charpy, this position
places the notch at the location of the maximum tension.
Experimental Procedure:
Specimen is placed in the vice of the anvil.
The pendulum hammer is raised to standard height
depending on the type of the specimen.

 When the pendulum is released, its potential energy is

converted into kinetic energy.
Izod specimen hits above the V-notch and the charpy
specimen hits behind the V-notch.
Now the energy absorbed is measured from the scale of
the impact testing machine.

Fig IMPACT TEST

CALCULATION FOR COIR&BAMBOO FIBER:

From the above procedure, energy absorbed by the specimen is
1.8J and therefore

MATERIAL

IMPACT VALUE

CI(00)

0.4

C2(300)

0.67

C3(450)

0.9

TENSILE TEST:
Tension test is conducted by gripping the test
specimen

between

the

upper

and

lower

cross-heads,

Compression, transverse, bending, shear and hardness tests are

conducted between the lower crosshead and the table. The lower
cross-head can be raised or lowered rapidly by operating the
screwed columns thus facilitating ease of fixing of the test
specimen.
Universal Testing Machine is designed for testing metals and other
materials under tension, compression bending, transverse and
shear

loads.

Operation

of

the

machines

is

by

hydraulic

transmission of load from the test specimen to a separately

housed load indicator. The hydraulic system is ideal since it
replaces transmission of load through levers and knife edges,
which are prone to wear and damage due to shock on rupture of
test pieces. Load is applied by a hydrostatically lubricated
ram.The power pack generates the maximum pressure of 200

kgf/cm2 the hydraulic pump provides continuously non-pulsating

oil flow. Hence the load application is very smooth.
After clamping the test specimen in the UTM the test is carried
out by applying the gradual load. once it reach the ultimate load
the test specimen would broken and result of the specimen is
obtained.

TESTING SPECIMEN
The tensile strength was determined by using Microteck tens
meter with precision case arrangement. A specimen of rectangle
shape with standard specifications was cut from the composite
plate already made.
The cut tensile was held in eccentric roller grips and load
was applied on the specimen gently and the mercury ran in the
banana column from zero point.
As the load increases, fracture occurred in the gauge length
position of the test specimen. The load at break down was noted
from scale and process is repeated for other specimens and

average load at the break was noted and tensile strength was
calculated.
TENSILE TESTING PROCEDURE
Standard Operating Procedure
Allow the tensile testing machine to warm up for approximately 15
minutes. The power switch is located on the right-hand side of the
machine at the rear.
After 15 minutes have passed, startup the FIE software package by
clicking the [FIE] icon on the desktop
Enter your name and information in the log book, which is usually found
near the computer.
Once the software has started up (which can take up to 2 minutes), click
on [Test]
You now need to choose a method. A method is a pre-loaded set of
instructions by which the equipment operates. Select the method entitled
CHEE420.im_tens. Click [Next] to load the method.
You will now need to create a sample filename. Ensure that you know
which filename corresponds to which group of samples you are testing!
Click [Next]
You can enter a company/laboratory name if you wish. Click [Next]
(which is now slightly to the left of the previous [Next] button).
You can label each specific sample in a group of samples if you wish.
Click [Next].
The sample is now ready for testing. Move the grips on the tensile testing
machine up or down so that the sample fits properly into the machine
using the [Up/Down] button on the bottom right-hand side of the
machine.
Moving the grips manually by pressing the [Up/Down] button is a onetime calibration that will not need to be repeated; after each subsequent

sample is tested, the machine will automatically return to this starting

position.
Once grips have been positioned correctly, a sample can be secured
inside the grips (Figure 1 illustrates how to properly fix a sample in the
grips).
At the top of the computer screen, click on [Balance Load] and [Reset
Gauge Length] to calibrate the machine.
To test the sample, click on the [Start] button on the right side of the
screen. Note: the machine has been programmed to stop once the sample
has broken.
However, this is not always the case. If the sample has broken and the
machine continues to operate, click on the [Stop] button located just
under the [Start] button. The results will be no different from the results
obtained if the machine stops automatically.
Remove the broken sample from the grips and click [OK].
Click on [Next] to finalize the data collected from the sample. If you feel
that the sample will not give data that is representative of the other
samples in the group (either due to an error in the calibration or if the
sample slips out of the grips), then the data from that sample can be
excluded from the final analysis of all 5 samples in the group. To do this,
check the box that says [Excluded].
Click [Next] four more times to finish with the first sample. The second
sample is now ready to be tested. The procedure is the same as for the
first sample. Dont forget to click [Balance Load] before each new
sample is tested.
Once all 5 samples have been tested, the testing can be finished by
clicking on the [Finish] button on the bottom right side of the screen
once the program prompts for the 6th sample (or the 7th sample if one of
the tests was excluded).
Write any notes in the boxes provided if desired and click [Next].

 Click on [Finish Sample] to save the data and generate a report from the
group of samples tested.
Sl.No

Fiber

orientatio Tensile Strength

angle (degree)
0

(KN)
1.65

30

2.055

45

2.15

If there are more groups of samples to be tested, click on [Yes].

To exit the program, click on the [FIE] button at the top left of the screen
and then click [Exit].
Access the file by clicking [My Computer] [Local Disk C:]
[Documents and Settings] [CHEE420]. Copy your files and shut
down the machine .
TENSION

TEST

BAMBOOCOMPOSITES:

GRAPH

FOR

COIR

WITH

Fig: tensile test coir&bamboo at 300 orientation fiber.

Fig: tensile test coir&bamboo at 00 orientation fiber.

Fig: tensile test coir&bamboo at 450 orientation fiber.

FLEXURAL STRENGTH:
Flexural strength, also known as modulus of rupture, bend
strength, or fracture strength a mechanical parameter for brittle
material, is defined as a material's ability to resist deformation
under load. The transverse bending test is most frequently
employed, in which a rod specimen having either a circular or
rectangular cross-section is bent until fracture using a three point
flexural test technique.
The rectangular test pieces of 130133 mm dimension for
flexural test were cut from the prepared non woven composites.
Flexural test was conducted as per ASTM D 790 - 07 1.The test
was conducted on the universal testing machine with Series IX
software using a load cell of 10kN at 2.8mm/min rate of loading.
The specimen was freely supported by a beam and the load
was applied in the middle of the specimen. The tests were carried
out at a temperature of 27C and the relative humidity of 50%.
For statistical purposes, a total of 5 samples were tested.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Make: Deepak polyp last
Load Cell:

50kg FT
30 T TT

Attachments:
1. Tensile Test
2. Compression Test

3. Flexural Test
4. Shear Test
5. Twist Test

Control: Computer Controlled

Figure:Flexural tests in UTM

Fig. (a) - Beam of material under bending. Extreme fibers at B

(compression) and A (tension)
The flexural strength would be the same as the tensile strength if the material
were homogeneous. In fact, most materials have small or large defects in them

which act to concentrate the stresses locally, effectively causing a localized

weakness.
When a material is bent only the extreme fibers are at the largest stress so, if
those fibers are free from defects, the flexural strength will be controlled by the
strength of those intact 'fibers'. However, if the same material was subjected to
only tensile forces then all the fibers in the material are at the same stress and
failure will initiate when the weakest fiber reaches its limiting tensile stress.
Therefore it is common for flexural strengths to be higher than tensile
strengths for the same material. Conversely, a homogeneous material with defects
only on its surfaces (e.g. due to scratches) might have a higher tensile and flexural
strength.
If we don't take into account defects of any kind, it is clear that the material
will fail under a bending force which is smaller than the corresponding tensile
force. Both of these forces will induce the same failure stress, whose value depends
on the strength of the material.

Fig. - Beam under 3 point bending

FLEXURAL TEST FOR COIR WITH BAMBOOCOMPOSITE:

Sl.No

Fiber

orientatio flexural Strength

angle (degree)

(KN)

1.65

30

2.055

45

2.15

GRAPHS:

Fig: flexural test coir&bamboo at 300 orientation fiber.

Fig: flexural test coir&bamboo at 450 orientation fiber.

Fig: flexural test coir&bamboo at 00 orientation fiber.

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)

Scanning electron microscope of Model JEOL JSM-6480LV (Figure
3.2) was used for the morphological characterization of the
composite surface. The samples are cleaned thoroughly, air-dried
and are coated with 100 thick platinum in JEOL sputter ion
coater and observed SEM at 20 kV. To enhance the conductivity of
the composite samples a thin film of platinum is vacuum
evaporated onto them before the micrographs are taken. The
fracture morphology of the tensile fracture surface of the
composites were also observed by means of SEM.

Figure: SEM Set up

RESULT

Fiber at 300

Fiber at 450

Fiber at 00

APPLICATION

Home applicance like(door)

Automobile light casing
Harsbetsheet
Panel making
Lathe bet
Wheel hub etc.

ADVANTAGES

low cost
ease of decomposability.
It is replace natural plastic
Strong bonding strength
3D-combination
High flexural strength
High tensile strength
High hardness strength&impact strength

CONCLUSION:
Based on the test analysis of the new composite material which is
fabricated with an ingredient of NaOH treated coir&bamboo fibre

and vinyl ester resin have higher strength than the other
composite materials. Since the coir with

bamboo fibre is

conventional in nature it is very cheaper and easy to fabricate

and use.Bio-composites were prepared with the help of coir fiber
and epoxy and hardener using handmade mould.
In this we are oberved lot result from various test all the result are
shown strength directional proportional to fiber orientation. Ex: 45
degree orientation material

have maximum tensile & flexural

strength more than 30, 0 degree orientation composite.