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International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056 Volume: 11 Issue: 05 | May 2024

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p-ISSN: 2395-0072

A REVIEW ON NATURAL FIBER REINFORCED POLYMER COMPOSITES B. Sudheer Reddy 1, N. Nandini2, K. Madhu Sudhan3, A. Arun Reddy4, M. Sudharshan5, K. Vamsi Krishna6 1 Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Annamacharya Institute of Technology &

Sciences (Autonomous), Tirupati, A.P., India

2-6 B.Tech Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Annamacharya Institute of Technology & Sciences

(Autonomous), Tirupati, A.P., India ---------------------------------------------------------------------***---------------------------------------------------------------------

Abstract - Polymers matrix composites are commonly used

Whatever the polymer type, it can be easily combined with other materials to enhance their properties and performance, further expanding their potential uses in various industries. The combination of matrix and reinforcement phases is merely known as a composite material, where the polymer will be matrix/base material then it is referred as polymer composites [8-9]. PMCs, are classified as either particle, fiber, or flakes reinforced depending on the kind of reinforcement that is integrated into the polymers. Particle reinforced PMCs typically involve the addition of small particles, such as ceramics or metals, to the polymer matrix to improve strength and stiffness. Fiber reinforced PMCs, on the other hand, use longer fibers, such as carbon or glass, to enhance the mechanical properties of the polymer [10-12]. Lastly, flake reinforced PMCs incorporate flat flakes, like mica or graphite, to provide thermal and electrical conductivity to the polymer. Overall, the flexibility and versatility of polymer composites make them a valuable material for a wide range of applications across industries. Nevertheless, the type of fiber is also very important in enhancing PMC qualities.

in a variety of applications, including aerospace, automotive, marine, and household, due to their design flexibility, lightweight, high modulus, ease of manufacturing to meet specific requirements, when compared to traditional metals composites. However, they possess poor mechanical, tribological and physical properties. In order to improve the aforementioned properties researchers introduced different fibers, flaks, and fillers into polymers. This article presents the recent development of the polymer matrix composites reinforced co-related with the mechanical characteristics (flexural strength, tensile strength, and hardness), Morphological characters (scanning electron microscopic (SEM), X-ray diffraction analysis (crystallinity), and FTIR (chemical compound)) analysis. Key Words: Natural Fiber, Polymer Matrix Composites (PMCs), Epoxy, Flexural Strength, Tensile Strength, and Hardness,

1. INTRODUCTION

2. Fibers used in polymer composites

Polymers are frequently using in a variety of applications, including aerospace, automotive, marine, and household, due to their ease of manufacturing varied forms to meet specific requirements, when compared to traditional metals and composites [1-2]. Polymers have possessed good modulus of elasticity, strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, less water absorption, electrical conductivity and many more features. Overall, the properties of polymers make them a popular choice for a wide range of applications across different industries. Their ability to maintain strength and durability in challenging environments, along with their cost-effectiveness and versatility, make them a valuable material for various products. As technology continues to advance, the use of polymers is likely to expand even further, offering innovative solutions for a variety of needs [3-4].

The fibers are majorly classified into two categories as synthetic and natural fibers as shown in Fig. 1. Normally, the man-made (synthetic) fibers derived from synthetic materials enhance the load-carrying capacity and mechanical properties of PMCs, but they have poor energy dissipation capabilities and are not environmentally friendly. Due to this, Mother Earth is facing several issues. The unsustainable use of synthetic fibers in PMCs has led to increased pollution and waste that is harming the environment. As a result, there is a growing need for more sustainable alternatives that can still provide the necessary strength and durability without causing further damage [8, 13]. Researchers are now exploring natural fibers and bio-based materials as potential solutions to reduce the negative impact on the planet while still meeting the performance requirements of PMCs. By making these changes, we can help protect Mother Earth and create a more sustainable future for generations to come. As a result of polymers' inability to degrade, the study shifts to the development of green products (bio-degradable products) as well as the reduction of natural fibers' (NFs) carbon footprints [14-15].

One of the key advantages of polymers is their flexibility in design and production. With the ability to be molded into virtually any shape or size, polymers can be customized to meet specific requirements and applications [5-6]. This versatility allows for the creation of complex and intricate designs that may not be possible with other materials. The polymers are classified into thermoplastics, thermosets, and elastomers.

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