Evaluation of the effect of variations in resin and fiber composition on tensile and compressive properties of natural material composites

Natural fiber-based composite materials are gaining attention as sustainable alternatives in construction due to their eco-friendly properties and potential to reduce carbon emissions. This study investigates the mechanical performance of composites reinforced with wood fiber, rice husk, and fiberglass, focusing on the effects of varying resin-to-fiber ratios (70% resin - 30% fiber, 80% resin - 20% fiber, and 90% resin - 10% fiber). Results show that the 90%-10% composition achieved the highest tensile (11.28 MPa) and compressive strength (81.96 MPa) but exhibited brittle failure. The 70%-30% composition had 24.5% higher strain capacity than fiberglass-based composites, making it more flexible but mechanically inconsistent due to fiber dispersion issues. The 80%-20% composition provided the best balance of strength, flexibility, and stability. As material control, compared to 100% fiberglass (70% resin-30% fiberglass), natural fiber composites had comparable tensile strength but lower compressive strength, making them more suitable for flexible applications than load-bearing structures. These findings confirm that no single composition is universally optimal, with 70%-30% ideal for flexible applications, 90%-10% for high-strength structures, and 80%-20% for balanced performance. This study highlights natural fibers as a promising fiberglass alternative, emphasizing the need for improved fiber dispersion and durability studies.