A study on hybrid jute and palm fibers blend/polyester composites: Properties and potential end uses

Abstract

The study aims to provide valuable insights into the development of sustainable and cost-effective composite materials, particularly focusing on the combination of palm fiber and jute fabric. The inclusion of palm fibers significantly enhances the stiffness and strength of the composite. The research involves the fabrication of composites with a consistent fiber-to-polymer ratio of 20% in all samples. However, the proportions of the various reinforcing components varied in each sample, with the palm fiber ratio to jute fabric set at 40%, 70%, and 100%. The resulting curved beam, designed as a low-speed collision bumper, surpasses its commercial counterparts in deflection. Increasing fiber volume percentages contribute to enhanced bending stiffness and flexural strength. Notably, the optimal ratio of 70% demonstrates the highest impact energy, surpassing the 40% ratio sample by 150%. The study underscores the successful production of a low-impact bumper through the synergistic reinforcement of jute and palm fibers. It emphasizes the specific optimal ratio (70%) as a substantial contribution to the sustainable development of composites for effective low-impact bumpers.