Integration of Rice-Husk Filler on Physico-Mechanical Characteristics of Hybrid Sisal and Glass Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composites for Neck Brace.
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Date
2023-10
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Despite the fact that composites have better corrosion resistance, light weight, good consolidation, and are available in large sheet sizes and wide range of thicknesses, physical and mechanical properties still need to be examined and improved to meet the needs of a wide range of applications. At the time of operation of composites some mechanical properties are significantly influenced by the presence of voids. The voids are the locations where stress is concentrated which accelerates the failure process leading to early and catastrophic failure of the composite. Different investigation also described important properties, including water resistance, weathering, surface smoothness, stiffness, dimensional stability, machinability, shrinkage, voids and temperature resistance, can all be improved through the proper use of fillers. The objective of this research work is to develop and characterize the physico- mechanical properties of hybrid sisal and glass fiber with rice husk filler epoxy composite. Hand lay-up fabrication technique will be used to prepare the specimen with 20% fiber and 0%, 2%, 4%, 6% and 8% rice husk filler which are then compressed using a compression molding machine. compressive strength (ASTM D3039), flexural strength (ASTM D790), impact energy tests (ASTM D256) and physical properties such as density (ASTM D792) and water absorption (ASTM D570) was conducted using ASTM standard. From the experiment executed, it is observed the flexural strength, water absorption and void content improved with addition of filler. However, compression and impact strengths slightly reduced. The design of composite structures was then evaluated using Ansys ACP analysis in order to utilize it for the required application. In compared to the others, the hybrid sisal and glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites with 2% and 4% rice husk filler exhibit outstanding performance.
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physic- mechanical properties, ASTM, sisal, glass fiber, rice husk filler.