Abstract:
Composite is a material composed of two or more distinct phases and has bulk properties which
are significantly different from the constituent materials. These materials are becoming popular
because of their strength to weight ratio and ability to be tailored to suit any application. The
matrix used can be epoxy resin, unsaturated polyester or vinyl’s while the reinforcement can be
natural fibers like sisal, jute or synthetic fibers like glass fibers, carbon fibers, or Kevlar fibers.
Apart from the matrix and reinforcement, fillers are used to increase the bulk and reduce the
density of the manufactured composites.
This research focuses on the manufacture of composite materials by using sugarcane bagasse as a
filler, jute natural fiber as reinforcement material with PVA as matrix. Trial works was made to
determine the perfect proportion bagasse and PVA wood glue and a specific resin was selected
as best based on retained mechanical properties. A specimen product of such a composite has
developed through layer by layer method at a control temperature and pressure to suit the
processes. The composite was tested for its mechanical properties like tensile, bending and
compression strength by using conventional testing machines and the results were recorded and
compared with the available chipboard. The resulting properties would help to identify the
suitable applications for the manufactured composite.