Sustainable optimization of compression molding parameters for high‐performance titanium‐based fiber metal laminates with graphene‐enhanced <scp>K</scp>evlar/jute fibers
Abstract This study explores the design and optimization of titanium‐based fiber metal laminates (Ti‐FMLs) reinforced with a hybrid core of Kevlar and jute fibers, bonded using a graphene‐enhanced epoxy adhesive. The research systematically investigates the effects of graphene content (0, 1, and 2 wt%), molding pressure (0.5, 0.7, and 1.0 MPa), and curing temperature (250°C, 300°C, and 350°C) on mechanical properties, including tensile strength, Young's modulus, failure strain, flexural strength, impact energy absorption, and peel strength. Using advanced multi‐criteria decision‐making (MCDM) techniques, specifically SWARA (stepwise weight assessment ratio analysis) and CoCoSo (combined compromise solution), the optimal processing parameters were identified. The results reveal that the inclusion of 2 wt% graphene, combined with a curing temperature of 300°C and a molding pressure of 1 MPa, provides superior mechanical performance. The optimized configuration (Kevlar, 2 wt% graphene, 1 MPa, 300°C) achieved the highest tensile strength of 845.3 MPa, Young's modulus of 136.34 GPa, and peel strength of 15 N/mm, while exhibiting improved interfacial bonding and delamination resistance. The Kevlar/jute laminates demonstrated enhanced ductility and impact energy absorption, reaching a peak energy absorption of 16.3 J, making them suitable for applications requiring both high performance and sustainability. The findings emphasize the critical role of graphene nanofillers in improving interfacial adhesion and matrix toughness, while the inclusion of jute fibers highlights the potential for environmentally friendly hybrid composites. This study provides a robust framework for optimizing FMLs for advanced structural applications in aerospace, automotive, and defense industries, for further exploration of sustainable materials and durability. Highlights Titanium‐based FMLs with graphene‐enhanced Kevlar/jute fibers were developed 2 wt% graphene improved interfacial bonding, boosting strength and modulus Graphene filler restricted crack growth, improving fiber‐matrix load transfer Kevlar/jute laminate increased ductility, balanced strength, and sustainability Optimized molding pressure and temperature‐enhanced mechanical properties
Authors
- K. Logesh
- Hariharasakthisudhan Ponnarengan (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9420-3196)
- Michael Roger Naveen
Institutions
- Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology (IN)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Polymer Composites
- Published
- 2025-02-06
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1002/pc.29582
- Citations
- 5
- Primary Topic
- Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing Technologies
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 3.41