Mechanical Properties of Chemically Treated Luffa Aegyptiaca Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Matrix Composites

In recent year natural fiber composite material place a major role in aerospace and automobile
industries. Natural fibers such as flax, hemp, kenaf and jute are derived from renewable resources and
consequently are perceived as environmentally friendly materials. Natural fibers are reported to have
advantages of lower cost and better stiffness per unit weight compared to other materials. In this project
the natural fiber is Luffa aegyptiaca Fibers are alkaline treated and dried out in sunlight. The various wt
% of discontinued fibers are laminated with epoxy resin and the laminates are prepared by hand layup
process. The Mechanical properties of natural fiber composites such as tensile, compressive, impact and
flexural strength has founded and compared. Then, SiO2 nano particles synthesized in sol-gel method and
they are induced with epoxy to improve the certain mechanical property of the composite material. Most
major automobile manufacturers are currently using natural fiber Composites for different parts inside
and outside cars and buses. Such as dash board ceilings, seat filling, door trim, door cladding. Consumer
and industrial uses include flowerpots and lawn furniture.