Investigation of the Mechanical Properties of Hybrid E-Glass and Mohair Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composites

Natural fiber composites have significant potential to replace traditional materials used in industries due to their excellent tensile strength, stiffness, low specific weight, and superior thermal and insulating properties. Mohair fiber, also known as the Noble fiber and the Diamond fiber, is obtained from the Angora goat, an animal of Tibetan origin. Renowned for its brilliant luster and resilience, Mohair is a symbol of luxury and exclusivity. The primary objective of this study is to manufacture and test a new natural fiber composite that could potentially outperform existing materials in real-world applications. Specifically, the study aims to investigate the mechanical properties of this composite. Mohair has previously been identified as a fiber many times stronger than a strand of steel of similar dimensions. Incorporating these highly desirable properties of Mohair into an epoxy matrix is one of the novel aspects of this research. The testing procedure begins with the preparation of ASTM molds, concurrent treatment of the fibers, and the preparation of the binding material. Specimens are created both with and without the addition of electrical glass (E- glass) fibers. The next phase is curing, during which the epoxy is allowed to solidify, forming strong bonds. Once developed and cured, the composites are removed from their molds and undergo post-processing and finishing techniques. This study aims to understand the tensile and flexural characteristics of natural fiber composites reinforced with epoxy. Three fiber orientations- uniaxial, biaxial, and criss-cross-are employed to assess the changes in the mechanical properties of the composites. The results indicate that adding E-glass fibers in alternating layers of the composite significantly enhances both tensile and flexural strength. Statistically, the addition of the biaxial arrangement of fibers with E-glass fibers results in an 18.47% improvement in ultimate tensile strength, while the maximum flexural strength increases by 49.90%. Furthermore, the topography of the cracked surface is examined using field emission scanning electron microscopy, and the breaking of the fibers in all three directions is studied.