Page 38 - Template Tesis UTM v2.0

2.3 Hybrid Composites

Hybrid composites consist of the amalgamation of two or more fibres in a

matrix with the feasible combination of natural-artificial, artificial-artificial and

natural-natural fibre types in one matrix. In the case of polymer composites, hybrid
composites comprise of these systems where one or two or more reinforcing and filling

incorporated materials are present in a single matrix or a type of reinforcing material

is in a mixture of different matrices or the combination of both approaches [19].

The objective of hybridisation is to attain unified properties of the hybrid

composite such as to balance between strength and weight, reduce product cost,
enhance corrosion resistance and improve ductility, which could not be achieved by

using a single type of fibre. As found previously, partial replacement of man-made
fibre with natural fibre able to achieve the intermediate properties of the composite

laminate between its constituents. Hybrid composite potentially to increase the
capability of the structure in resisting cyclic loading and prolong its fatigue life, better

impact resistance and fracture toughness, as well as lesser notch sensitivity in

comparison to native composite structures [20].

The hybridisation of composite materials with synthetic or natural fibre and

petroleum-based polymers, such as thermoset or thermoplastic matrices would
produce alternative engineering materials which are environmentally friendly,

biodegradable, economic and potentially recyclable. The use of such materials will

also reduce our dependence on non-renewable material sources. Subsequently, this
will contribute to lower pollutant level and greenhouse gas emission, enhanced energy

recovery and increase of biodegradable components at the end of a product’s lifecycle
[21]. Mechanical properties of natural fibre hybrid composite highly correlated with

the weight or volume fraction of fibre, fibre arrangement, surface treatment of fibre

and environmental conditions of the structures being used. The study revealed that the
treated natural fibres with NaOH improved the surface adhesion with matrix. In

addition, the mechanical properties of the composites increase linearly with the fibre
volume fraction. However, natural fibre hybrid composites highly sensitive with

environment temperature and exposing for a long time will degrade its properties [1].

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