Comparison of Flexural Properties of Luffa and Jute Fibers
In this study, the mechanical properties of bio-composite materials produced by using plant-based fibers compared. Luffa fiber and jute were used as reinforcement in the production of these bio-composite samples. To able to compare the mechanical properties of the reinforcement the same matrix (epoxy) was used in the production of all samples. Three-point bending tests were performed to determine the mechanical properties of these specimens. According to the test results, the Flexural Stress of luffa and jute fibers were measured 55 MPa and 36.5 MPa respectively. Also, Flexural Modulus calculated as 5.7 GPa for luffa and 5.5 GPa for jute fibers. The strength of luffa fibers experimentally determined as obviously higher than jute fiber. Due to the high strength of luffa fibers should be preferred especially in applications that would be subjected to bending loads. Because of their design and strength characteristics of these green materials, it is envisaged that these materials could be an alternative for potential uses in aerospace, automotive and marine industries. We continue to work on the development of the mechanical properties of this kind of plant-based fibers in order to find a new alternative to glass fibers.
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