Optimizing Fabrication Parameters for Carbon and Hemp Fiber Reinforced Bio-Composites in Automotive Applications: A Study using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

Composite materials with carbon fibre and hemp fibre reinforcing (CF-HF) have recently become more popular in the dynamic automotive sector as a greener and more cost-effective substitute for synthetic materials. Using a polymer matrix reinforced with carbon and hemp fibers, this novel class of bio-composite can effectively substitute traditional, non-renewable reinforcing elements. Composites made of carbon and hemp fibers were created in this Research using the vacuum-assisted resin infusion (VARI) technique. To find the best fabrication settings for CMCF-HF, the Taguchi experimental design approach was used with an L27 orthogonal array matrix. Additionally, the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was utilised for achieving the optimal response value. The experimental factors included NaOH treatment (3, 6, 9 wt. %), post curing temperature (90, 120, 150°C), water absorption test durations (8, 16, 24 hours) and fiber types (Carbon Fiber, Hemp Fiber and a Carbon-Hemp Fiber blend). The results of this study revealed an optimised set of manufacturing parameters for CMCF-HF using RSM. Combinations X3Y3Z3 and X3Y3Z2 were determined to be the most successful, with the former producing an average flexural strength (FS) and impact strength (IS) of 94.8650 MPa and 0.241 J/mm2, respectively. Researchers found that impurities and voids had a detrimental effect on the composites' mechanical properties.