Enhancing Mechanical and Physical Properties of Jute/ <scp>JUCO</scp> /Glass Fiber Hybrid Composites Through <scp> TiO ₂ </scp> and <scp>CuO</scp> Microparticle Reinforcement

ABSTRACT The development of sustainable, high‐performance materials has intensified the demand for natural fiber‐reinforced polymer (NFRP) composites. However, the inherent limitations of natural fibers, such as low interfacial bonding and high moisture absorption, necessitate advanced hybridization and filler modification. This study investigates the mechanical, physical, and morphological characteristics of a novel five‐layer hybrid composite. The system utilizes a symmetrical Jute/JUCO/Glass/JUCO/Jute stacking sequence reinforced with an epoxy matrix and synergistically enhanced by copper oxide (CuO) and titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) microparticles. Fabricated via hand layup, the composites were evaluated at filler loadings of 1, 2, and 3 wt%. Results indicate that CuO at 3 wt.% yielded up to approximately 63.68% increase in tensile strength as compared to the control sample, while TiO 2 reached peak flexural strength and modulus at 42.15 MPa and 2.4 GPa, respectively. Impact strength trends suggest an increase of 121% with CuO and 85.25% with TiO 2 . Physical testing revealed that porosity and water absorption were reduced when microparticles were added, with TiO 2 providing better moisture resistance, as determined by the water absorption test. Improved fiber‐matrix interfacial adhesion was found in both micro‐filler systems by scanning electron microscopy analysis. These findings indicate that microfiller incorporation can enhance selected mechanical and physical properties of hybrid natural fiber composites. Specifically, the TiO 2 ‐reinforced hybrid composite (T‐3) demonstrated properties comparable to automotive interior components, suggesting potential for non‐structural or semi‐structural applications. However, the scope of the present study is limited to short‐term mechanical and physical evaluation, and additional investigations, particularly on fatigue performance, thermal stability, and long‐term environmental durability, are necessary to substantiate their suitability for demanding structural applications.