Umudike Journal of Engineering and Technology

Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike


DETERMINATION OF THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF BAMBOO FIBER REINFORCED COMPOSITE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF CAR BUMPERS

Eni-ikeh, S. N.
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria

Amaghionyeodiwe, C. A.
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria



ABSTRACT

In this work, mechanical and water absorption properties of bamboo fiber reinforced composite material for the production of car bumpers have been investigated. Chemical method was used in the extraction of the bamboo fibers. The composite consists of two samples, one is made up of 50% epoxy resin and 50% bamboo fibre (BFCS) and the other has a fixed percentage weight of 45wt % of bamboo fibre 30% by weight of epoxy resin and 25% by weight of iron filings (BFRC). Ethanol was used to facilitate easy removal of the composite from the mould after curing. Mechanical properties of tensile, flexural and impact tests were done in the Materials Testing Lab. using universal testing machine with cross head speed of 2mm/min at room temperature. The impact test was done with Durometer and Water absorption test is carried out using thermos gravimetric analysis to obtain maximum water intake and the moisture content. The results show that the reinforced materials of 25wt% composition of iron filings with epoxy resin matrix have higher mechanical properties and lower water absorption rate than the 50wt% bamboo fiber composite sample. The produced composite reinforced with iron filings can be used in light weight automobile parts such as bumper.


Keywords: Mechanical properties, Water absorption properties, Bamboo Fiber, Iron filings, epoxy resin


https://doi.org/10.33922/j.ujet_v10i1_18
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Published
Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Issue
Vol. 10 No. 1, June 2024

Article Section
GENERAL

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