Sustainable Hybrid Natural Fiber Composites: Influence of Stacking Sequence on Impact Performance and Energy Dissipation

ABSTRACT Composite materials are widely utilized in engineering applications due to their high strength to weight ratio. However, their dependence on synthetic reinforcements such as glass and carbon fibers raises concerns regarding sustainability and environmental impact. In this context, natural fibers have gained increasing attention as eco‐friendly alternatives, offering advantages such as low density, renewability, and reduced carbon footprint. In this study, natural fiber reinforced composite plates were manufactured using jute, hemp, and flax fibers within an epoxy matrix via the vacuum infusion method. It was produced in hybrid laminates to investigate potential synergistic effects. All specimens were subjected to low velocity impact tests at energy levels of 15, 30, and 45 J. The impact performance was evaluated in terms of peak force (PF), energy absorption (EA), and specific energy absorption (SEA). The results indicate that fiber type and hybridization significantly influence the impact response. The highest peak force (7542.74 N) and energy absorption (39.59 J) were obtained for hemp fiber‐reinforced composites, demonstrating their superior load bearing and energy dissipation capacity. In contrast, the highest specific energy absorption (0.632 J/g) was achieved by the hybrid hemp jüte flax configuration, highlighting the effectiveness of hybridization in enhancing energy absorption efficiency.