Abstract:
The mechanical properties of short oriented use kapok fabric-reinforced composites were investigated with reference to the fabric content, keeping the volume of ratio of resin at 1:16, 1:20 and 1:29 with constant weight. The volume of fabric for kapok was optimized. Composite materials were made by hand layup technique. The mechanical properties like tensile and hardness properties of the composites were studied. Best results were obtained for composites having increased kapok fabric content in kapok. The effect alkali treatment of fabrics on the mechanical properties of this kapok composite has also been studied.
A significant improvement was observed in tensile and hardness properties of these composites by alkali treatment. Tensile properties were found to be better in composites having volume ratios of kapok to epoxy 1:3 ratios. The composites exhibited good properties compared to the single of fabric composite.
