Experimental Investigation of Composite Material for Lightweight Structural Application

Abstract

This study investigated the mechanical properties of thatch-based composite materials for lightweight structural applications. The research involved fabricating glass fiber-reinforced polymer composites using hand lay-up techniques and conducting tensile, flexural, and compressive tests per ASTM standards. Three samples were tested to assess their mechanical behavior under various loading conditions. Tensile tests revealed ultimate strengths of 50 MPa, 36 MPa, and 26 MPa for Samples 1, 2, and 3, respectively, with low elongation (1.5–2.0%), indicating brittle failure. Flexural tests showed bending strengths of 161 MPa, 298 MPa, and 38 MPa, with Sample 3’s lower performance suggesting manufacturing inconsistencies. Compression tests demonstrated strengths of 57.50 MPa (Sample 1) and 58.80 MPa (Sample 2), reflecting high stiffness and brittle fracture. Compared to literature, thatch composites (26–50 MPa tensile strength) are competitive with natural fiber composites (30–65 MPa) but lag behind synthetic composites (400–550 MPa). The results highlight thatch composites’ potential for lightweight applications due to their acceptable mechanical properties and sustainability, though moisture sensitivity and variability in performance require attention. It was concluded that thatch-based composites are viable for lightweight structural uses, particularly in construction and automotive sectors, but require optimized fabrication and protective treatments to enhance reliability and durability, bridging the gap between theoretical potential and practical application.