An Investigation on Mechanical Behaviour of Pineapple and Aloe Vera Natural Fibre Stacking Hybrid Composite

J. Ekantha Moorthy; Loganathan P; Ganeshkumar K V; Karthick P

doi:10.5935/jetia.v12i59.3300

Authors

J. Ekantha Moorthy Department of Mechanical Engineering, Karpaga Vinayaga College of Engineering and Technology, Padalam, India
Loganathan P Department of Mechanical Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Ramapuram Campus, Chennai, India
Ganeshkumar K V Department of Mechanical Engineering, Hindusthan Institute of Technology, Malumichampatti, Othakalmandabam, Coimbatore, India
Karthick P Department of Advance Computing Sciences, AMET University, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5935/jetia.v12i59.3300

Abstract

This study investigates the mechanical performance, fracture behaviour, and water absorption properties of hybrid epoxy composites reinforced with pineapple leaf fibre (PALF) and aloe vera fibre (AVF) arranged in different stacking sequences. The aim is to analyse how fibre layer positioning influences tensile, flexural, and impact properties, and to identify optimal configurations for enhanced composite performance. Hybrid biocomposite laminates were fabricated using a hand lay-up method followed by compression moulding, with eight different stacking sequences of woven PALF–AVF mats. Mechanical testing was conducted in accordance with ASTM standards, while fracture surface morphology was examined using optical microscopy to identify failure modes such as fibre pull-out and matrix cracking. Water absorption tests were also performed to evaluate the influence of stacking arrangement on moisture uptake and long-term durability. The results revealed that certain PALF–AVF stacking sequences significantly improved mechanical strengths while reducing water absorption, highlighting the potential of these natural fibre hybrids in lightweight, semi-structural, and environmentally sustainable applications in the automotive, construction, and consumer goods industries.