Evaluation of mechanical and free vibration properties of the pineapple leaf fibre reinforced polyester composites. (20th January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Senthilkumar, K.; Saba, N.; Chandrasekar, M.; Jawaid, M.; Rajini, N.; Alothman, Othman Y.; Siengchin, Suchart
• Is Part Of: Construction & building materials. Volume 195(2019)
• Page Start: 423
• Page End: 431
• Publication Date: 2019-01-20
• Subjects: Pineapple leaf fibre -- Polyester -- Mechanical properties -- Compressive strength -- Damping factor -- Free vibration; Building materials -- Periodicals; 624.18
• DOI: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2018.11.081
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0950-0618

Abstract

Highlights: Development of sustainable eco-friendly composites by cost effective process. Mechanical performance of PALF/Polyester composite on the influence of fibre loading. SEM analysis showed improved stress transfer through better interfacial adhesion. Improved natural frequency and decrease in damping ratio were found for increasing fibre loading. Suitability of optimal composite for structural members in construction industry. Abstract: Pineapple Leaf Fibre (PALF) Reinforced Polyester (PE) composites were fabricated by hand lay-up using randomly oriented PALF in PE matrix, compressed at 17 MPa by compression moulding. Effect of PALF loading in PE composites on mechanical, morphological, free vibrational and damping properties were investigated. Result analysis revealed that the tensile, compressive strength and flexural properties considerably increased with increasing PALF loading according to the rule of mixtures. Moreover, SEM images of tensile fracture samples shows relatively less fibre pull-out, fibre breakage and improved fibre/matrix adhesion due to effective stress transfer with the increased PALF loading in PE composites. Natural frequency improved while damping ratio decreased as a result of increasing the PALF loading in PALF/PE composites. Finally, a composite with 45 wt% PALF loading is found as suitable replacement for structural component in construction industries.