Multiwalled carbon nanotubes filled pineapple/kenaf hybrid laminated composites structures for electromagnetic interface shielding applications

Abstract The main objective of the present research is to investigate the mechanical and electrical properties of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNTs) filled pineapple and kenaf fiber‐based hybrid laminated composite structures using the hand layup technique. 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 wt%. of MWCNTs are incorporated into the proposed composite structures. The incorporation of MWCNTs into the hybrid composite structure increases flexural, tensile and impact strength by 173%, 53%, and 29% respectively. The morphological studies are presented to understand fiber pull‐out, matrix breakage, delamination and debonding phenomena. Further, the addition of MWCNTs into the laminated composites decreased the water absorption properties from 8.3% to 4.3%; however, the density of the composites increased slightly due to a more compact structure. The incorporation of MWCNTs into the laminated composite structure enhances the electrical properties such as dielectric constant and AC conductivity by forming a conductive network. The and of developed composites increased by 3.0 and 6.8 times due to the interfacial polarization. The results from the study demonstrate that incorporating MWCNTS into pineapple and kenaf fiber‐based hybrid laminated composite structures helped to enhance both the mechanical and electrical properties, making it a primary choice for electromagnetic interface shielding applications. Highlights Laminated composites are fabricated using the hand layup technique. , and of the composites are increased by 173%, 56%, and 29%. The water absorption percentage decreased from 8.3% to 4.3%. and of composites increased by 3.04 and 6.8 times.