Mechanical characterization and performance optimization of hybrid teff fiber /E-glass fiber reinforced polymer composite for structural applications

Lightweight structural materials are available as sustainable options in the form of natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites. The purpose of this study is to manufacture a hybrid composite containing Teff fiber (TF) with E-glass fiber (E-GF) to evaluate their mechanical characteristics and performance optimization. Most farmers used TF with mud for the construction of interior and exterior walls of the house. Many composite polymer matrix materials insufficient mechanical strength for use in structural applications. The mechanical properties of the hybrid TF and E-GF composites in the current research study are improved by optimizing fibre content, orientation, and treatment. Hybrid composites were manufactured using a hand layup technique at various percentages of TF, E-GF and Epoxy resin. Tensile, flexural, impact, and compressive strengths were assessed in accordance with ASTM standard. Signal-to-noise ratio and Taguchi method were utilized to optimize parameters of the current research study. The composite with 40 wt% (15% TF and 25% E-GF) was found to have the highest tensile strength (33.04 MPa), while 20 wt% (15% TF and 5% E-GF) exhibited the highest compressive strength (74.43 MPa); additionally, the composite with 30 wt% (15% TF and 15% E-GF) showed the highest flexural strength (64.48 MPa) and impact strength (127 kJ/m 2 ). The optimization findings showed that the mechanical properties were affected by the fibre content, treatment and orientation. The 5% NaOH treatment of the fibre provided improved interfacial bonding and enhanced the overall strength of the composite material. Examination of the microstructure of the composites demonstrated the proper dispersion of the fibres and their adhesion.