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The effect of layup and pressure on mechanical properties of fiberglass and kenaf fiber composites

In an effort to present more ‘green’ material for massive manufacturing that are both competitive in their properties and can be more environmental friendly, natural fibers are being considered for possible applications in the automotive industry. This paper shows an exploratory study of the effects of pressure and layup on a hybrid composite of randomly oriented woven kenaf fibers and fiberglass/polyester sheet molding compound (SMC). In addition to initial testing performed on their water absorption and other important properties, these hybrid composites were tested to determine the bending modulus of elasticity (MOE) and the bending modulus of rupture (MOR) as well as the tensile modulus of elasticity (MOE), ultimate tensile strength. Pictures are taken from a Spectral Electron Microscope to determine if the fiber mats were properly penetrated by the resin and if the structural integrity of the fibers was maintained during manufacture.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:MSSTATE/oai:scholarsjunction.msstate.edu:td-5351
Date06 August 2011
CreatorsFulton, Ian Taylor
PublisherScholars Junction
Source SetsMississippi State University
Detected LanguageEnglish
Typetext
Formatapplication/pdf
SourceTheses and Dissertations

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