Experimental optimization of CuO and MgO hybrid nanoparticle reinforcement ratios to enhance fatigue life of GFRP composites

Abstract

This study investigated the optimization of CuO and MgO nanoparticle reinforcement ratios within glass fiber‐reinforced polymer (GFRP) composites, and it examined the impact of the hybrid mixture of oxide powders on the mechanical properties of the GFRPs. The study aims to improve the mechanical properties of GFRPs by combining these two powerful nanofillers in various weight ratios to find the best combination to obtain the best fatigue life. Tensile‐tensile fatigue tests were conducted on 25 samples containing hybrid CuO and MgO nanoparticles ranging from 0.0 to 0.8 wt% in 0.2% increments. The test was conducted using a computer‐controlled servo‐hydraulic fatigue device. It was found that the GFRP composite reinforced with hybrid nanoparticles improved the fatigue life. The CuO proportion in the composites partially increased the brittleness properties, while the MgO proportion partially increased the stiffness according to the results. It was found that 0.6 wt% MgO–0.4 wt% CuO and 0.2 wt% MgO–0.6 wt% CuO GFRP composites demonstrated the highest fatigue life yielding at the 39.5k, and 13.7k cycle at 70%, and 80% load level, respectively. The best fatigue life was yielded at the 128k cycle with the 0.4 wt% MgO and 0.6 wt% CuO sample at the 60% load level. According to experimental hysteresis energy loss, 0.4 wt% MgO–0.2 wt% CuO GFRP composite was found to have the highest energy loss. The energy loss increased by approximately 51% in this composite compared to the non‐reinforced composite. The fracture surfaces of a fatigue sample were shown with the SEM image.Highlights The GFRP composites were produced by combining MgO and CuO as a hybrid reinforcement. Analyzed fatigue life using hysteresis curves and S–N graphs. The fatigue life of GFRP composites was improved with hybrid nanofiller content. As compared to separate reinforcements with CuO or MgO, the hybrid nanoparticle reinforcement enhanced fatigue life more.