Publication

Abstract : In this study, areca/ ramie fibre-reinforced hybrid composites were fabricated by modifying the weight percentage of graphene nanoparticles (0.50 wt%, 1.0 wt%, 1.50 wt%, 2.0 wt%) using the compression moulding technique. Graphene-reinforced adhesives were prepared using the ultrasound sonication method. The structural behaviour of the hybrid composite was evaluated through tensile, flexural, and impact analyses. The experimental findings indicated that the inclusion of 1.5 wt% graphene significantly increased the tensile strength, flexural strength, and impact energy of the hybrid composite by 187.88 %, 143.17 %, and 159.66 %, respectively. This substantial improvement in mechanical properties lays a solid foundation for the potential engineering applications of these composites. Free vibrational analysis showed that the presence of graphene-enhanced the fundamental natural frequencies of the hybrid composite because of enhanced bonding between natural fibres and the epoxy matrix. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) revealed the uniform dispersion of the 1.5 wt% graphene in the epoxy matrix. Furthermore, FE-SEM results demonstrated the formation of resin-rich areas, better fibre/matrix adhesion, matrix damage, voids, and agglomerated areas in the hybrid composite. The water absorption rate decreased with the existence of graphene, reducing the void content and physically hindering the infiltration of water molecules into the hybrid composite. The present research emphasises the potential of using a hybrid composite material prepared with areca and ramie fibres, combined with an optimal wt% of graphene powder. The proposed composite material shows great promise for various weight-sensitive engineering applications such as automotive, marine, and aerospace industries, where lightweight interior structures are essential.