Mechanical characteristics of tri-layer eco-friendly polymer composites for interior parts of aerospace application

Abstract Tri-layer sisal (S)/banana (B)/coconut sheath (C) hybrid composites have been developed using a compressing molding technique with all possible layering patterns. Dynamic characteristics such as natural frequency and damping factor of laminated composites were studied in addition to the static mechanical properties. The alkali (NaOH) treatment was employed on fiber reinforcement to enhance the interfacial adhesions between the fiber and matrix. Results revealed that the change in layering pattern and alkali treatment influences the performance of composites on both static and dynamic characteristics. Among all, the alkali treated SCB combination was found to be optimal, with composites that offered better tensile, flexural, and damping properties. The failure mechanism, such as fiber pull out, voids, and debonding of composites, was analyzed with the aid of SEM micrography. Further, the optimal composite can be considered as an alternative for food stand in air space vehicles.