Investigation Into Natural Material Integration for Improved Mechanical Performance in Glass-Jute Fibre Hybrid Composites

Natural fibres have attracted the interest to engineers, researchers, professionals and scientists all over the world as an alternative reinforcement for fibre reinforced polymer composites, because of its superior properties such as high specific strength, low weight, low cost, good mechanical properties, nonabrasive, eco-friendly and bio-degradable characteristics. The growing demand for sustainable and high-performance materials has led to increased interest in natural reinforcements for composite materials. This study explores the mechanical behaviour of hybrid composites made from glass fibre and jute fibre matrices, reinforced with two natural seed powders: Tamarindus indica (tamarind) and date kernel. The objective is to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of these natural additives in enhancing the mechanical properties of conventional fibre composites. The primary aim is to evaluate the effectiveness of these natural fillers in enhancing the tensile, compressive and impact properties of the composites. Specimens will be fabricated using the hand lay-up technique, employing epoxy resin and hardener in a 10:1 ratio as the binding matrix and subjected to series of Mechanical tests which include Tensile, Compression and Charpy impact testing. Each material will be tested and compared to baseline composites to see if any performance benefits result from the addition of natural reinforcements.