Abstract:
Nowadays, natural fiber reinforced polyester hybrid composites are widely used for
different applications with various advantageous properties such as low density, low
cost, maximum specific strength, eco-friendliness, and easy availability. Among the
natural fiber sources, Malva verticillata and nettle plants are natural fiber sources that
are widely accessible in Ethiopia. Despite the fact that the fibers were utilized as rope,
mats, and other local applications, due to a lack of awareness about the harvesting,
extraction, and application of plant fibers for other purposes. So, the aims of this
study were to characterize the mechanical properties of the malva verticillata and
nettle fiber hybrid composite with polyester resin. The Malva verticillata and nettle
fiber was extract using water and also treated with 5% and 2% NaOH by distilled
water for 24 hours respectively. After treatment measured, diameter, density, and
single yarn tensile strength of the Malva verticillata and nettle fibers. The hybrid
composite samples have been fabricated with Malva verticillata /nettle/ Malva
verticillata /nettle fibers mat staking sequence by 60% of polyester. The experimental
results show that the developed hybrid composites of the malva verticillata and nettle
fibers with polyester resin have been optimal mechanical characteristics. The average
maximum tensile strength, young’s modulus and Charpy impact energy value
were119.325 Mpa 2.23GPa, and 54.064J respectively and it occurred at the ratio30%
Malva verticillata /10% nettle fibers. The flexural test result indicated that average
maximum flexural strength and young’s modulus values were 219.23MPa and
7.513GPa respectively. According to the experimental test results hybrid composites
of malva verticillata with nettle have optimal strengthened mechanical properties in
tensile strength, flexural strength, and Charpy impact tests. These hybrid composites
product can be used for internal partition applications.
Keywords: Malva Verticillata, nettle, polyester, bidirectional mat, hybrid composite