OBRABOTKAMETALLOV MATERIAL SCIENCE Vol. 26 No. 3 2024 Deliberate increase in the weight of Sida cordifolia fibres combined with decrease in the amount of jute fibres while keeping the total weight of both fibres constant in all specimens containing benzoylated Sida cordifolia fibres in PLA matrix resulted in significant increase in composite strength. This suggests that inclusion of higher proportion of Sida cordifolia fibres contributes significantly to the mechanical robustness of the composite. SEM analysis of fractured tensile specimens at ×500 magnification provided valuable insight into the fibre bonding characteristics of the fibers. The lignin content observed in untreated fibres correlates with weaker bonding to the matrix. Conversely, chemically treated Sida cordifolia fibres are characterised by the absence of lignin in the composite, resulting in superior bonding to the matrix and, consequently, increased strength. The increased fibre elongation in chemically treated Sida cordifolia fibres further highlights its improved load-bearing properties, which are attributed to its high wettability. Based on the successful results of mechanical tests, it is recommended to explore the possibility of hybridizing Sida cordifolia fibers with other natural fibers to achieve even more favorable results. The versatility of Sida cordifolia fibers makes it suitable for use in combination with various natural fibers, which allows the creation of special composite materials with excellent mechanical properties. The experimental results of tensile and flexural tests conducted on hybrid composites made from jute, polylactic acid (PLA) and Sida cordifolia fibres demonstrate important results regarding the mechanical properties of these materials. The main findings of the study can be summarized as follows: Increase in mechanical strengths with treated fibers. There is a clear trend indicating that the mechanical properties of the composites improve with the addition and increase in weight of the treated Sida cordifolia fibers. Specimen 4, which contains the highest amount of treated Sida cordifolia fibers (15 g), exhibits the highest tensile strength of 43.658 MPa and flexural strength of 6.650 MPa. This suggests that the treatment process improves the adhesion of the fiber to the matrix, thereby improving the load transfer between the fibers and the PLA matrix. Effect of fiber treatment on composite properties. The treatment of the Sida cordifolia fibers plays a crucial role in the performance of the composites. The untreated fibers in Specimen 2 resulted in a slight decrease in tensile and flexural strength compared to the composites with treated fibers. This indicates that the treatment process can modify the surface properties of the fibers, improving compatibility and bonding to the PLA matrix. Overall, the study shows that hybrid composites reinforced with treated Sida cordifolia and jute fibers in a PLA matrix exhibit promising mechanical properties. Treatment of natural fibers and its optimized incorporation into composites can play a key role in the development of sustainable and high-performance materials for various engineering applications. Further studies on durability, environmental impact and economic feasibility are needed to fully realize the potential of such composite materials in industrial applications. Future Scope and Potential Developments A study of hybrid composites consisting of Sida cordifolia fibres, jute and PLA matrix, with particular emphasis on different fibre treating options, has demonstrated promising results in enhancing tensile and flexural strength. However, further research and development is suggested in several key areas to expand the application and improve the performance of these composites: – Advanced chemical or physical treatment processes for Sida cordifolia fibers can further improve its compatibility with the PLA matrix, improving mechanical bonding and overall composite performance. – Modifying the PLA matrix by mixing with other biopolymers or adding plasticizers can improve its ductility and processing characteristics, which will allow it to better combine with natural fibers. – Exploring alternative composite manufacturing methods, such as polymer transfer molding or vacuum forming, may provide more uniform material properties and reduce void content. Using variable pressure and temperature curing cycles can help optimize mechanical properties and minimize internal stresses in the composite. Different stacking sequences and orientations of the fiber layers can be analysed to tailor mechanical properties to specific application conditions.
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