Advancements in Lightweight Composite Materials for Enhancing the Structural Integrity of Automotive Component

<div class="section abstract"><div class="htmlview paragraph">This research was conducted with the aim of exploring the usage of advanced lightweight materials such as aluminum matrix composite and aramid fiber reinforcement polymer for increased structural integrity of the hood of an automotive vehicle. The automotive sector is moving toward lightweight materials because of the need to enhance fuel efficiency, the importance of reducing environmental impact, and the need to ensure safety of new-generation automobiles. While traditional materials such as steel and aluminum might be very rigid and durable, they also add huge weight to the overall vehicle design. Consequently, these vehicles become more fuel inefficient, which could lead to higher emissions and pollution. The two materials chosen for this research are very promising, considering that both are characterized by high specific strength and impact resistance capabilities. The low weight of the materials is also an added bonus. While AMC is manufactured by consolidating aluminum with ceramic or metallic components, AFRP employs aramid fibers in a polymer matrix. The test performed in this research to evaluate the suitability of the two materials for the said purpose include tests on impact resistance, tensile strength, and hardness. The materials were tested concerning the standards of the Charpy test, the universal testing machines, and the Vickers scale. The findings of the test produced differing results concerning the two materials. AMC demonstrated an average impact resistance of 76 kJ/m<sup>2</sup>, a tensile strength of 402 MPa, and a hardness of 122 HV. AFRP, on the other hand, registered superior values for the said test: an average impact resistance of 153 kJ/m<sup>2</sup>, a tensile strength of 556 MPa, and a hardness of 122 HV. Consequently, the research concludes that AFRP is the most suitable material for hood design in the automotive industry.</div></div>