Abstract:
This study explores the mechanical and diffusion behaviors of a wide range of composite and hybrid materials, with a particular focus on their performance under applied loads and moisture absorption. Materials such as basalt, carbon, jute, and e-glass, along with various hybrid combinations, are analyzed to understand how moisture diffuses throughout these materials over time, with a 48-hour observation period across different environmental conditions. The materials are subjected to structural analysis at a 1 MPa load, with deformation, stress, and Young’s modulus evaluated to assess their mechanical properties. Through this approach, the research provides a detailed understanding of how these composites respond to both mechanical and environmental stressors. CATIA software is utilized for the precise geometric modeling and simulation of the composites, ensuring that the findings accurately reflect the material performance under realistic conditions. The study also investigates the impact of fiber volume fractions (10%, 20%, and 30%) on both the mechanical and moisture diffusion properties of each material, providing insights into the trade-offs between strength and moisture resistance.
The results of this study reveal significant differences in mass concentration, stiffness, deformation, and stress resistance across the individual composite materials and their hybrid combinations. Basalt composites exhibit the highest moisture diffusion, which translates into the greatest mass concentration, while carbon composites are the strongest in terms of mechanical performance, offering the highest stress resistance and stiffness. The hybrid combination of jute and carbon fibers strikes a balance between mechanical performance and low moisture absorption, making it a promising option for applications that require both strength and moisture resistance. The findings highlight the importance of carefully selecting material combinations and fiber volumes to optimize composite performance for specific engineering applications. By understanding how different hybrid compositions respond to moisture and mechanical stress, this research lays the foundation for the design and optimization of composite materials in industries where both strength and environmental resistance are critical.
Aim:
The objective of this study is to evaluate the diffusion rates of water and alkaline acids in bio-composite materials, with a particular focus on their suitability for marine applications. The research investigates how variations in fiber concentrations, orientations, and exposure temperatures influence the materials’ moisture absorption properties. By utilizing Finite Element Analysis (FEA) methodologies, the study aims to identify the optimal fiber configurations that minimize moisture dispersion while maintaining the material’s mechanical performance. This approach provides valuable insights into the behavior of bio-composites in harsh marine environments, where moisture and corrosive elements are prevalent, ultimately contributing to the development of more durable, sustainable materials for marine applications.
Objectives:
This study begins with the development of a comprehensive Representative Volume Element (RVE) model for the bio-composite material unit cell, incorporating multiple fiber concentrations and orientations to replicate realistic marine environments. The primary objective of this model is to enhance 3D visualization, enabling better draughting and offering a strong foundation for future simulations. The model will serve as a critical tool for understanding the internal structure of the bio-composite material, enabling researchers to simulate real-world conditions in a more precise and controlled manner. Additionally, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) will be used to conduct a thorough examination of fluid diffusion rates within the 3D model, focusing on how fiber orientation, concentration, and temperature affect moisture absorption. The study will validate the results by comparing the diffusion rates and mechanical characteristics of the optimized bio-composite material with data from previous studies, ensuring the reliability and accuracy of the findings.
In addition to the diffusion analysis, the study will focus on optimizing the bio-composite matrix by adjusting fiber concentrations and orientations to minimize water and alkaline acid diffusion while preserving the material’s mechanical integrity. This will involve iterative testing using FEA data to identify the ideal configuration that maximizes moisture resistance. The impact of varying temperatures on diffusion rates will also be explored, aiming to determine the optimal conditions that improve the material’s resistance to moisture penetration. Finally, the overall performance of the optimized bio-composite material will be assessed in terms of both moisture absorption and mechanical properties, including tensile and flexural strength. This thorough evaluation will ensure that the bio-composite is well-suited for demanding maritime applications, validating its potential as a durable and sustainable material in harsh marine environments.
