Mechanical characterization of jute fiber based biocomposite to manufacture automotive components

Abstract

In this research work, samples of the biocomposite were manufactured using the vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) technique, whose matrix is a polyester resin and the reinforcement is a biaxial fabric (90°) made with jute fiber. Then, tensile and flexural tests were carried out on standardized specimens under ASTM standards, in order to mechanically characterize the jute-polyester biocomposite. In both destructive tests, the results showed a linear-elastic behavior with brittle fracture and greater strength of the jute-polyester biocomposite, with respect to the thermosetting matrix’s properties. Subsequently, a finite element based static analysis was performed, with the help of the ANSYS software, to determine the mechanical behavior of interior opening handle for a car door. In it, a model sensitivity study was run to determine the influence of the mesh type and identify the convergence of mesh. Later, the static analysis results were obtained: critical zone, maximum operating stress and safety factors. The results obtained computationally validate the use of jute-polyester biocomposite, as a substitute for the manufacture of an interior opening handle for a car door. Finally, a scale model of the piece made with jute-polyester biocomposite was manufactured.

Polymer Composite Thermoforming: Ultrasonic-Assisted Optimization for Enhanced Adhesive Performance in Automotive Interior Components

“…However, the current literature primarily focuses on observing and analyzing damage, with fewer methods proposed for mitigating and preventing such damage. This study seeks to provide practical solutions for addressing the adhesive damage induced by temperature non-uniformity by adopting ultrasound-assisted technology and zone-specific simulations [ 4 , 5 ].…”

“…The study aims to delve into damage formation mechanisms through a combination of simulation and experimentation, providing practical and viable solutions to mitigate the damage caused by temperature non-uniformity. Ultimately, this research aims to propel the manufacturing technology of automotive interior components forward and reduce manufacturing industry energy consumption [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ].…”

Ansys-Based Evaluation of Natural Fiber and Hybrid Fiber-Reinforced Composites

“…The traditional composite reinforced materials have been replaced by balsa, hemp, bamboo, coir, jute fibers, etc. [4][5][6], and have become a potential market as world production reached 33.3 million tons in 2021 and is projected to reach 33.7 million tons in 2022 [7]. Nowadays, many industries are using natural-fiber-reinforced polymer composites, with the industry worth approximately USD 2.1 billion in 2010 [8] and growing to nearly USD 6.50 billion in 2021 [9].…”