Production and Influence of SiO2 and Fiber Sequencing on the Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Kenaf/Sisal/Glass Laminates

Abstract

The epoxy-fiber composite laminates are found to have a high strength-to-weight ratio, enhanced fatigue strength, and better stiffness performance. However, weak interfacial bonding, improved moisture absorption, and brittle nature due to higher epoxy content limit the overall functional properties of the composites. The objectives of the present research are to produce and enhance the functional properties of the Kenaf (KF)–sisal (SF)–glass fiber (GF)-reinforced epoxy composite laminates fabricated with 3 wt% nano-silicon dioxide (SiO₂) via hot compression molding production method. During the fabrication, the 0/0/0 degree, 45/0/0 degree, 0/45/0 degree, and 0/0/45 degree laminates were formed without and with 3 wt% SiO₂. The effect of the fiber laminate and SiO₂ on X-ray diffraction analysis, mechanical properties, moisture absorption, and thermogravimetric analysis of the composites was studied. The epoxy hybrid composite laminate of 0/45/0 with 3 wt% SiO₂ nanoparticles showed a higher tensile strength of 92.2 MPa, improved flexural strength of 145 MPa, better impact strength of 31 kJ/m², and reduced water absorption of 2.4%. Furthermore, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) demonstrated that the introduction of SiO₂ enhanced the onset decomposition temperature, and the moisture uptake tests recorded a significant decrease in water uptake, favoring dimensional stability.