FABRICATION AND EVALUTION OF MECHANICAL

PROPERTIES OF PINE APPLE LEAF FIBER/CARBON

POWDER HYBRID COMPOSITES USING TAGUCHI
METHOD
A PROJECT REPORT SUBMITTED TO
JAWAHARLAL NEHRU TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY, KAKINADA

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of degree of

MASTER OF TECHNOLOGY
IN
MACHINE DESIGN

Submitted By
K. RAVI BABU
[16NG1D1506]
Under the Esteemed Guidance of
Dr. S. MADHUSUDAN, M.Tech, Ph.D
Head of the Department, Mechanical Engineering

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

USHARAMA COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to JNTU, Kakinada)
Telaprolu, Krishna District-521109, Andhra Pradesh
2016-18
 USHARAMA COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
TELAPROLU, KRISHNA (Dt.)
(NAAC ‘A’ Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to JNTU, Kakinada)
DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
2016-2018

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that it is a bonafide report of the project work entitled “FABRICATION
AND EVALUTION OF MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF PINE APPLE LEAF
FIBER/CARBONPOWDER HYBRID COMPOSITES USING TAGUCHI METHOD”
has been carries out by K. RAVI BABU (16NG1D1506) submitted project report
towards the partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of M. Tech in
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING for the academic year 2016-2018.

PROJECT GUIDE PROJECT COORDINATOR HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT

Sri Dr.S.Madhusudan Sri.K.SrinivasaRao Sri Dr.S.Madhusudan
M.Tech, Ph.D M. Tech M.Tech, Ph.D
Professor Asst. professor Professor

SUBMITTED ON: EXTERNAL EXAMINAR

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
First and foremost I express my warm and grateful thanks to my project guide and our Head
of the Department Dr.S.MADHUSUDAN who offered technical suggestions and constant
encouragement in every step of my project work.

I am greatly indebted to M.Tech coordinator Sri. K. SRINIVASA RAO, M. Tech, for his
excellent guidance in executing project work. He has been so cooperative and kind, to us to
giving the tips and procedures for successfully completion of the project work.

I express my special gratitude to our principal Dr. G.V.K.S.V PRASAD who made this
endeavor possible. I express my special gratitude to our director Dr. K. RAJASEKHAR
RAO who made this endeavor possible.

I sincerely thank our institute USHA RAMA COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND

TECHNOLOGY for giving this opportunity for fulfilling our dreams of completing P.G
course
I sincerely thank our chairmen sir Sri SUNKARA RAMABRAHMAM for his constant
support throughout the course.

It is my immense pleasure to express my heartfelt gratitude to our Faculty members whose

constant guidance helped me a lot. My friends and family members deserve very special
thanks for their continued support, encouragement and patience throughout the project work.

K. RAVI BABU
16NG1D1506
 LIST OF CONTENTS

PAGE NO
Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION 1-3
1.1 Problem Needs and Approach 2-3
1.2 Research Objectives 3
Chapter-2: BACK GROUND THEORY & LITERATURE REVIEW 4 – 19
2.1 Back Ground Theory 5 - 12
2.1.1 Definition of Composite Material 5
2.1.2 Composites Classification 5–8
2.1.3 Hybrid Composite 8–9
2.1.4 Natural Fiber-Reinforced Composites 9
2.1.5 Classification of Natural Fibers 9 – 11
2.1.6 Background Theory 11
2.1.7 Applications of Natural Fibers 11
2.1.8 Application of Carbon Powder Materials 11
2.2 Identification, Collection& Extraction of Natural Fiber 12 - 15
2.3 Literature Survey 16 - 19
CHAPTER-3: EXPERMENTATION 20 - 28
3.1 Composite Fabrication 21 - 25
3.1.1 Plan of experiment 21 - 22
3.1.2 Preparation of Composite Specimens 22 - 23
3.1.3 For Measurement of Mechanical Properties 23 - 25
3.2 Measurement of Composite Dimensions 25
3.3 Measurement of Weight of Composite 25
3.4 Calculation of Weight Fraction of Fiber 25
3.5 Testing Equipment 26
3.5.1 Tensometer 26
3.5.2. Impact Testing Machine 26
3.6. Specimen Standards 27
3.6.1. Tensile Test 27
3.6.2. Flexural Test 27
3.6.3. Impact Test 27
3.7. Calculations 27 - 28
 3.7.1. Tensile Strength 27
3.7.2. Flexural Strength 28
3.7.3. Impact Strength 28
CHAPTER-4: RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS 29 - 43
4.1 Tensile, Flexural and Impact strength results 30 - 33
4.2 Taguchi analysis for tensile and flexural strength 33 - 36
4.3 Analysis of variance 36 - 38
4.4 Mathematical model using multiple regression analysis 38 - 43
CHAPTER-5: CONCLUSIONS 44 - 46
5.1 Conclusions 45
5.2 Scope for Future work 46
REFERENCES 47 - 48
 LIST OF TABLES

TABLE NO TABLE TITLE PAGE NO.

2.1 Composition of Few Commonly Used Natural Fibers 11
3.1 Selected Factors and Their Levels 21
3.2 Orthogonal Array (OA) L9 22
3.3 Orthogonal Array with Control Factors 22
4.1 Tensile Strength, Flexural Strength and Impact Strength 30
For Various Compositions
4.2 Experimental Results of Tensile Strength Along With S/N Ratio 32
4.3 Experimental Results of Flexural Strength Along With S/N Ratio 32
4.4 Experimental Results of Impact Strength Along With S/N Ratio 33
4.5 Response Table for Signal to Noise Ratio for Tensile Strength 33
4.6 Response Table for Signal to Noise Ratio for Flexural Strength 34
4.7 Response Table for Signal to Noise Ratio for Impact Strength 34
4.8 ANOVA Table for Tensile Strength 37
4.9 ANOVA Table for Flexural Strength 37
4.10 ANOVA Table for Impact Strength 38
4.11 Data regression constants for tensile strength 40
4.12 Data regression constants Flexural for strength 40
4.13 Data regression constants Flexural for strength 40
4.14 Error percentage for experimental and predicted values of 41
Tensile strength
4.15 Error percentage for experimental and predicted values of 42
Flexural strength
4.16 Error percentage for experimental and predicted values of 42
Impact Strength
 LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE NO FIGURE TITLE PAGE NO.

2.1 Thermoplastics 7
2.2 Thermoset 7
2.3 Classification of natural fibers which can be used as reinforcement 10
Of polymer
3.1 Mould Sheet For Tensile Test Specimens 22
3.2 Mould Sheet For Impact Test Specimens 22
3.3 Tensile Test Specimens 24
3.4 Flexural Test Specimens 24
3.5 Impact Test Specimens 24
3.6 Tensometer 26
3.7 Charpy Impact Testing Machine 26
4.1 Tensile strength variation for fiber reinforced composites 30
4.2 Flexural strength variation for fiber reinforced composites 31
4.3 Impact strength variation for fiber reinforced composites 31
4.4 S/N ratio plots for a) Tensile Strength, b)Flexural Strength 35 - 36
And Impact strength
4.5 Fitted line plots for a) Tensile Strength b) FlexuralStrength 38 - 39
And Impact strength
 ABSTRACT

The composite manufacturing has been a wide area of research and it is the preferred
choice due to its superior properties like low density, stiffness, light weight and possesses
better mechanical properties. This has found its wide applications in aerospace,
automotive, marine and sporting industries. There has been continuous lookout for
synthesizing composites without compromising on the mechanical. In the present study
polymer composite reinforced with pine apple leaf fiber and carbon powder are fabricated
and tested to determine the mechanical. Experiments were conducted using Taguchi L9
orthogonal array considering the two design parameters viz. weight fraction of the pine
apple leaf fiber and carbon powder as filler. The Experimental results were analyzed using
Taguchi optimization method. Signal-to- noise (S/N) ratio, Regression analysis and
Analysis of variance (ANOVA) were carried out to obtain the significant values of tensile
strength, flexural strength and impact strength.

KEY WORDS: pine apple leaf fiber, carbon powder, polyester resin and Taguchi
 CHAPTER-1
INTRODUCTION

1
 CHAPTER-1
INTRODUCTION
During the previous few years it's been an increasing environmental consciousness that
extended the hobby to apply natural fibres like pineapple, kenaf, jute, hemp, flax, and fibre in
preference to synthetic fibres that is Glass, aramid, and carbon in composite substances. The
benefits of natural fibres are reasonably-priced, low-density with excessive precise properties
(properties per unit weight). Furthermore, the natural fibres are recyclable, biodegradable,
renewable, and locally available. Though the Tensile strength and Tensile modulus of natural
fibres are extraordinarily beneath those of artificial fibres, natural fibres provide important
cost blessings. The differences in fibre structure and the overall environmental conditions
during growth affect the mechanical properties of natural fibres. Natural fibres can be treated
in different ways to yield different mechanical properties. In some treatments, they could
have mechanical properties comparable to those of glass fibre-polymer composites. In a few
treatments, they will have mechanical properties comparable to individuals of glass fibre-
polymer composites.

On the opposing, the synthetic fibres have serious drawbacks in manners of excessive cost,
non-biodegradable, riskful, non-renewable, and non-recycle. The shortcoming has been
highly exploited by proponents of natural fiber composites. The employment of natural fibre
for composite uses has lately been the subject of concentrated evaluation in many countries.
Several car elements have been already created by way of natural composites. The door
panels that accommodates a flax/sisal mat embedded in epoxy matrix has exposed a
noteworthy weight loss of concerning twenty percent. Additionally, their mechanical
properties which can be vital for rider protection in the event of fatal accidents are improved.
Moreover, the natural fibre composite material can be moulded into complicated shapes.

A range of building components comprised of agricultural resources has reached a

manufacturing stage. They include low-density insulation boards, medium-density fiber
boards, hard boards, particle boards, and other building system components such as walls and
roofs. In Africa, it is being in accordance that a sturdy fibre board has been made from
combinations of luggage (sugar cane residue), angiospermous tree bark and corncobs.

In general, natural fibres are mainly composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. In
order to expand the use of agro-fibers for composites, it is useful to have the information on

2
fiber characteristics and the factors which affect performance of the fibre. Vetiver grass
(Vetiveriazizanioides) belongs to identical Poaceae as maize, sorghum, sugarcane and
lemongrass. Vetiver grass is documented as a helpful plant for erosion management. In the
Kingdom of Thailand, His magnificence the King Bhumipol Adulyadej has initiated and
supported the employment of vetiver grass for soil and conservation since 1991. Varied
actions on alternative applications of this grass are promoted since then. Generally, leaves of
the vetiver grass are cut each few months. Solely a minor portion of the residues is reserved
as mammal feed or domestic fuel. On the opposite hand, large quantities of the left-over
residues area burnt in fields or on the facet of road.

Research Objectives:

The current research work is carried out to fabricate natural hybrid reinforced composite
consisting pineapple leaf fibre as one reinforcement, and carbon powder as another
reinforcement and polyester as matrix to evaluate the mechanical properties. The
investigation is carried out with the following objectives.

Fabrication of composite specimens using in different weight percentages as per ASTM

standards. Experiments were conducted using Taguchi L9 orthogonal array considering the
two deign parameters viz. weight fraction of the pineapple leaf fiber, weight fraction of the
carbon powder. Evaluation of mechanical properties of composite material. The experimental
results were analyzed using Taguchi optimization method. Signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio is
employed to find the best combination of the factors. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was
carried out at 95 % confidence level to determine the effects of the input parameters on the
mechanical properties. Establishing the correlation between the two design parameters viz.
weight fraction of the pine apple leaf fiber and weight fraction of the carbon powder using
linear multiple regression analysis.

3
 CHAPTER-2
BACK GROUND THEORY & LITERATURE
REVIEW

4
 CHAPTER-2
BACK GROUND THEORY AND LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 BACK GROUND THEORY

2.1.1 DEFINITION OF COMPOSITE MATERIAL:

A structural composite is a material, whose mechanical performance and properties are

designed to be advanced to those of the constituent substances acting independently. One
among the phases is sometimes discontinuous, stiffer, and more potent and is called the
reinforcement, at the same time the much less stiff and weaker segment is called the matrix.
Sometimes, due to chemical interactions an additional phase called interphase exists between
the reinforcement and the matrix. The matrix acts as a load transfer medium amongst fibres,
the matrix is more ductile than the fibres. The matrix also serves to defend the fibres from
environmental damage. When designed properly, the brand new combined material will show
higher strength than the individual materials.

Composite materials are have advantages, such as long fatigue life, high stiffness, high
strength, low density, and adaptability to the intended function of the structure.

When designed properly, some improvements can be brought out in composite materials like

• Corrosion resistance

• Strength to weight ratio

• Appearance

• Tensile strength at prominent temperature

• Environmental Stability

• Thermal Insulation

• Conductivity and Acoustic Insulation.

2.1.2 COMPOSITES CLASSIFICATION:

2.1.2.1 According to the form of reinforcing material: Based on the form of the
reinforcement material the composite material can be classified as

5
• Fibrous Composites
• Particulate Composites
Fibrous Composites: A fibre is categorized with the aid of its length and cross-sectional
dimensions. Fibres could be long or short. They may be oriented in one direction, two
directions or in multi directions. Continuous fibre is a fibre whose length to diameter ratio is
very high. Man-made fibres or filament of non-polymeric materials show significantly higher
quality alongside their length.

Particulate Composites: The reinforcement is in particle nature in particulate composites. It

may be spherical, cubic, tetragonal, platelet, regular or bizarre shapes. Generally, particles are
not very effective in improving fracture resistance but they enhance the stiffness of the
composite up to certain extent. Particle fillers are widely used for improving the properties of
matrix materials such as thermal and electrical conductivities, performance at elevated
temperatures, wear and abrasion resistance, machinability, surface hardness at the same time
reduce shrinkage and reduce friction.

2.1.2.2 According to the kind of matrix material: Based on matrix material composites can
be classified as
• Metal Matrix Composites
• Ceramic Matrix Composites
• Polymer Matrix Composites
Metal Matrix Composites: These materials provide higher strength, crack durability, and
stiffness. Metal matrix withstands outstanding temperature inside the acidic surroundings
than polymer composites. Titanium, Aluminium and Magnesium are the commonly used
matrix metals and are the most accepted matrix metals currently in use, which are particularly
useful for aircraft applications. Metal matrix composites are found in a wide range of
applications such as combustion chamber nozzle, housings, tubing, cables, heat exchangers,
structural members etc.

Ceramic Matrix Composites: The foremost goal in producing ceramic matrix composites is
to increase the durability. Naturally, it is found that there is a major improvement in the
strength and stiffness of ceramic matrix composites.

Polymer Matrix Composites: Polymer composites may be produced without much

difficulty, they are light in weight, and possess required mechanical properties. They may be
appreciably used for aeronautical applications. There are two types of polymers. They are

6
thermosets and thermoplastics. Thermoplastics have one-dimensional or 2-dimensional
molecular structure. They tend to show the exaggerated melting point. Another advantage is
the process of softening at elevated temperatures and regain its properties during cooling,
thus facilitating them to be used in moulding techniques to mold the components. Many
experiments are done in this area to improve the base properties of the resins and extract the
greatest functional advantages from the new avenues, attempts are made to replace metals in
die-casting processes. Figure 2.1 shows the types of thermoplastic resins.
Figure 2.2 shows the types of thermo set resins. Thermo sets have nicely-bonded three-
dimensional molecular structure after curing. They decompose on reheating. A small change
in the elemental composition of the resin is enough to modify the conditions appropriate for
curing and determine its unique tendencies.

Figure 2.1 Thermoplastics

Figure 2.2 Thermo set resins

Epoxy resins have been widely utilized in filament wound composites and are appropriate for
moulding prepeg. They are reasonably stable to chemical attacks and are wonderful adherents
having slow shrinkage throughout hardening and no emission of volatile gases. These
advantages, however, create the employment of epoxies rather expensive. Also, they cannot

7
be expected on the other side at temperature of 140ºC. Their use in high technology areas
wherever service temperatures are higher.

Polyester resins on the other hand are quite easily accessible, low cost. Liquid polyesters are
stored at room temperature for months, typically for years and the mere addition of a catalyst
will cure the matrix material within a brief time. They are utilized in automobile and other
structural applications. Cured polyesters are rigid and tensile in nature. Polyester resin
withstands the variation in environment and stabile against chemicals. Depending on the
formulation of the resin or service requirement the resin can be used at 75o C or higher.
Aromatic Polyamides can be used as matrices for advanced structural applications having
extended length exposure and non-stop service at around 200-250ºC.

Most generally used materials are polymeric in nature. In general, the mechanical properties of
polymers are low when compared to metals and ceramics. These difficulties can be overcome
by properly selecting the other elements like enforcement materials, their orientation etc.
Processing of polymer matrix composites need not involve high pressure and doesn’t require
high temperature. The equipment required for manufacturing polymer matrix composites are
much simple and less complex.

There are two types of polymer composites. They are:

• Fibre reinforcing polymer (FRP)
• Particle reinforcing polymer (PRP)
Fibre Reinforced Polymer: Fibre reinforced composites are composed of fibres and matrix.
Fibres are reinforced in the matrix and are the main source of strength. Matrix glues the fibres
and keeps them together in shape and helps in transferring stresses between the reinforcing
fibres. Sometimes, fillers are added to smoothen the manufacturing process, and to impart
special properties to the composites while reducing the product cost. .

Particle Reinforced Polymer: Particles used for reinforcement are ceramics, glasses, metal
particles and amorphous materials, including polymers and carbon black. Particles are used
for increasing the modulus of the matrix and to decrease the ductility of the matrix.

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2.1.3 HYBRID COMPOSITE:
Hybrid composites have more advanced composites when compared to
conventional fibre reinforced polymer composites. Hybrids composites have a couple of
reinforcing phases and a matrix section, single reinforcing segment with more than one matrix
phases, multiple reinforcing and more than one matrix phases. Hybrid composites have
higher flexibility when compared to other fibre reinforced composites.It contains a high
modulus fibre with low modulus fibre. The high-modulus fibre consists of stiffness and load
bearing qualities, whereas the low-modulus fibre makes the composite more damage tolerant
and low cost of material. Mechanical properties of hybrid composite range via changing volume
ratio and stacking sequence of different piles.

2.1.4 NATURAL FIBER-REINFORCED COMPOSITES:

Nowadays natural fibre reinforced polymer composite materials are growing in
terms of their industrial applications and fundamental research. Natural fibres are renewable,
cheap, absolutely or partially recyclable, and biodegradable. Plants such as flax, cotton,
hemp, jute, sisal, Kenaf, pineapple, ramie, bamboo, banana, wood etc, are used as a source of
lignocelluloses fibres. The availability, renewability, low density, and price as well as
satisfactory mechanical properties make them smart and ecological. The natural fibre
composites are more environmentally friendly and are used by transportation, building and
packaging industries.

2.1.5 CLASSIFICATION OF NATURAL FIBERS:

Fibres are thin thread like material, continuous filaments or discrete elongated pieces.
They are of two types: natural fibre and man-made or synthetic fibre. Fibres are spun into
filaments, thread, or rope. Figure 3 indicates the kind of natural fibres. Natural fibres are
classified according to their origin.
• Animal fibre
• Mineral fibre
• Plant fibre

Animal Fibre
Animal fibre consists of proteins; Examples: Mohair, wool, silk, alpaca and angora.
Animal hair (wool or hair): Fibre from animals or hairy mammals. Examples: Sheep’s wool,
goat hair (cashmere, mohair), alpaca hair, horse hair and so forth.

9
Silk fibre: Fibre produced from the dried saliva of insects or bugs or insects during the
preparation of cocoons.
Avian fibre: Fibres from birds, Examples: Feathers and feather fibre.

Figure 2.3 Classification of natural fibres

Plant fibre:

Plant fibres are comprised of cellulose: e.g: cotton, jute, flax, ramie, sisal and hemp.
Cellulose fibres are used in the manufacturee of paper and cloth. These fibres can be further
categorized into three types:
Seed fibre: Fibres which are collected from the seed and seed case e.g: cotton and kapok.
Leaf fibre: Fibres collected from the leaves e.g. sisal and agave.
Skin fibre: Fibres collected from the skin or bast surrounding the stem of their respective
plant. These fibres have higher tensile strength than others. The detail composition of a few
commonly used natural fibres is shown in Table 2.1

10
 Table 2.1 Composition of few commonly used natural fibres

Fibre Moisture Hemicellulose Cellulose Pectin Lignin Waxes

(Wt %) (Wt %) (Wt %) (Wt %) (Wt %)

Ramie 7.5-17 13.1-16.7 68.6-76.2 1.9 0.6-0.7 0.3

Bamboo - 0.5 60.8 - 32 -

Flax 8-12 18.6-20.6 71 2.2 2.3 1.7

Hemp 6.2-12 17.9-20.4 70-74 0.9 3.7-5.7 0.8

Jute 12.5-13.7 13.6-20.4 61.1-71.5 0.2 12-13 0.5

Kenaf - 21.5 45-47 3-5 8-13 -

Cotton 85-90 5.7 - 0-1 7.85-8.5 0.6

Sisal 10-22 10-14 66-78 10 10-14 2

Coir 8 0.15-0.25 32-43 3-4 40-45

Banana 10-12 19 63-64 - 5 -

2.1.6 BACKGROUND THEORY:

Materials describe major historical periods of our society, such as Stone Age, Bronze Age,
Iron Age, steel age, silicon age and silica age. This shows the importance of materials to us.
Increase in demand for special materials leads to new inventions, of most promising
inventions in the concept of composites.

Nowadays, engineering material at the atomic and molecular levels is creating a revolution in
the fields of materials. Increasing demand for special materials lead to new inventions, one of
the most promising inventions is the concept of composites.

Microscale particles are considered as high potential filler material for improving the
properties of the existing material. Due to the microtechnology, the polymer composites
become more attractive. Natural materials are most prominent and cost-effective options for
alternating the synthetic fibres reinforced composites.

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2.1.7 APPLICATIONS OF NATURAL FIBERS:
The natural fibres are very cost effective materials for the following applications:
 In Building and production organization: panels for partition and false ceiling,
partition forums, wall, floor, window and door frames, roof tiles, cellular or pre-
fabricated homes in times of natural calamities together with floods, cyclones,
earthquakes, and many others.
• Storage devices: put up-bins, grain storage soils, bio-fuel packing containers etc.
• Furniture: chairs, tables, showers, bath gadgets etc.
• Electrical devices: electric home equipment, pipes etc.
• Everyday packages: lampshades, suitcases, helmets etc.

2.1.8 APPLICATION OF CARBON POWDER MATERIALS:

Carbon powder substances are getting into large kind of applications. Few of them are
described in short applications as follows.
1. Chemical: Such as Paints, pigments, and coatings
2. Rubber production
3. Environmental uses such as adsorptive elimination of metallic ions and removal of natural
dye.

2.2 IDENTIFICATION, COLLECTION AND EXTRACTION OF NATURAL FIBERS

Figure 2.4 Pineapple plant in field

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Pineapple Plant:

Pineapple is perennial herbaceous plant with 1-2 m for height and width belongs to family
Bromeliaceae. It’s largely cultivated in coastal and tropical regions, mainly for its fruits. In
India, it is cultivated in 2250000 acres of land and is unendingly growing its production. The
first sprout of leaf looks ornamental; later it grows into 3ft. long, 2 to 3 inch wide, sword
shaped and numerous spirally arranged fibrous leaves edges as well as curved to maintain the
stiffness of the leaf.

Every pineapple fruit has an identical form of hexagonal sections on the outer shell and does
not depend on the scale or shape. Now Malaysia is one of largest producers in Asia as well as
Hawaii. It is produced in massive quantity about 384,673 metric tonnes in the year 2008.
Productions of Pineapple leaf fibres is plenty and annually renewable and easily available.
Pineapple is called Nanas in Malaysia; basically they use different varieties for different
purpose; for commercial purpose they use red pineapple and green pineapple; for edible
purpose, they prefer Sarawak pineapple and Morris pineapple. Pineapple fruits contain many
elements. It is source of bioactive compounds, particularly in proteolytic enzymes. Pineapple
is very rich source of bromelain and other cysteine proteases are present in different part of
pineapple. Commercially bromelain has been used in many food industries, cosmetics, and
dietary supplements.

History:

Pineapple is a native plant of America, first seen by Columbus and his partner in Gregorian
calendar month 4, 1493, at accomplice island of West Indies. A Spanish government officer,
De Oviedo, came to America in 1513; he handed over first written documents of some
varieties of pineapple, and he added some Indies varieties also. The plant is called
“pineapple” due to its fruit that appears to be a pine cone. The close by Tupi phrase for the
fruit has become anana, which means “great fruit;” this could be the supply for terms like
ananas, not unusual in several languages. In 17th century Americans imported pineapple from
Caribbean because of its apparently exotic features and rareness; pineapple began to be
considered as an icon of wealthy people in America. The Portuguese contributed their
important role in introducing the fruit throughout the whole tropical regions and major parts
of world like south and east coast of Africa, Madagascar, south India, China, Java,

13
Philippines, and Malaysia. Nowadays, varieties of pineapple plants are available which are
used in various applications such as edible, medicinal, and industrial applications. For
example, bromelain is an enzyme extracted from its leaves and helps in respiratory ailments.
A mixture of pineapple juice and sand is powerful cleaner for boat decks. Dehydrated waste
material of pineapple is used as bran feed for cattle, chicken, pigs, and so forth.

Pineapple Leaf Fibre:

Every year tonnes of pineapple leaf fibres are being created, although quite small quantity is
being used in the field of feedstock and energy production. The increase of bio-composites
has amplified business usage that could unleash the possibilities to lessen the wastage of
renewable substances. It’s white in colour, smooth, and colourful as silk, medium duration
fibre with immoderate enduringness. It’s a softer surface than other herbal fibres and it
absorbs and keeps a sincere colour. However, PALF has excessive unique power and
stiffness; it is hydrophilic in nature due to high cellulose content. Extraction of fibres from
pineapple leaf fibre is carried out by mechanical method and retting method. Fresh leaves
yield about 2 to 3% of fibres. Fibrous cell of PALF consists of vascular bundle system in the
form of bunches which is obtained after mechanical removal of the entire upper layer after
harvesting. PALF consists of the several chemical materials elements. It’s cell lignocellulosic
fibre containing polysaccharides, polymer in vital amount, and some minor chemicals like
fat, wax, pectin, uronic acid, anhydride, pentose, colour pigment, inorganic substance, and so
on. Fibre is collection of thin and small multicellular that seems like a thread. These cells are
tightly joined with the assist of cellulose. PALF represent polysaccharide (70–80 %) and
association of fibres is that like in cotton (82.7%). Altogether the collection, pineapple leaf
fibre is more properly matched fibre useful beneficial resource and constitutes a sincere
chemical composition. PALF has higher mechanical strength than the jute when it is used in
making of fine yarn.The plastic molecules version of PALF may be a 3-dimensional form and
parallel to crystalline place of the fibre. Remaining components of molecular shape be
speculated to associate within amorphous regions. Pineapple leaf fibre (PALF) is crucial fibre
that has excessive power, stress, and flexural and torsional stress the most quantity as jute
fibres. Considering the properties of PALF, industries will use it as a superb stuff inside the
prospect of reinforcing composite matrixes.

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Extraction of Pineapple Leaf Fibres:

Pineapple natural fibres have excellent mechanical strength but due to lack of knowledge it is
still not utilised properly. It can be used in various applications in the place of artificial fibres,
as a sound absorber and thermal insulator, and so forth. There are various methods to extract
the PALF from leaves of pineapple.

Scrapping technique of Extraction:

Scrapping gadget is that the tool used for scrapping the pineapple leaf fibre. The device is
that the mixture of 3 rollers: (a) feed curler, (b) leaf scratching curler, and (c) notched curler.
Feed curler is employed for the feeding of leaves into the device then leaves go through the
second one curler it is called scratching roller. It scratches a higher layer of leaf and gets rid
of the waxy layer. And overall leaves come over again to the dense related blade notched
roller that crushes leaves and makes many breaks for the entry passage for the retting
microbes.

Retting of Pineapple Leaves:

In retting approach, tiny bundles of pineapple leaves are immersed in a tank with water that
includes substrate: liquor in 1: 20 importance relation, urea 0.5%, or diammonium phosphate
(DAP) for short retting reactions. Materials in a cistern to be frequently checked by using
finger to verify fibre are unsnarled and might extract numerous chemical components like
pentosans, lignin, fats and wax, ash content element matter, and pectin. After retting process,
fibres are unintegrated automatically, through the laundry in pool water. Extracted fibres are
dried in hanging place by air. Both ball mill and disc mill can be used to extract PALF from
sliced modern-day pineapple leaf. The strategies no longer certainly are honest but moreover
offer higher fibre yield and smaller fibre than the equal antique strategies. Among the two
mechanical grinding tactics studied, moist ball aspect is a long manner slower but offers
PALF with a bigger form of cutting-edge fibres.

Chemical Composition:
The chemical components like holocellulose, α-cellulose, lignin, and ash content
material cloth material fabric of PALF had been analyzed from absolutely specific delivery of
fibres, age of fibres, and climatic conditions. via the usage of Technical Association of Pulp
and Paper change (TAPPI). The procedure to extract the fibres may attribute the factor of
various types of chemical composition and cell wall structure. In a totally transmission

15
microscopy, PALF semi-permeable membrane shows first-rate completely tremendous layers
as number one (P), secondary, and tertiary (S1, S2, and S3) layers. Pineapple leaf fibres have
numerous chemical factors like α-cellulose, pentosans, lignin, fat and wax, pectin, element
recollect, ash content material, degree of polymerization, crystalline of α-cellulose, and
antioxidants. PALF includes an excellent quantity of -cellulose (81.27), low quantities of
hemicelluloses (12.31%), and polymer content material (3.46%). PALF has higher plastic
content material cloth material in contrast to amazing herbal fibres like oil palm frond, coir,
and banana stem fibres. The pinnacle quantity of polysaccharide in PALF helps the higher
weight of the fruit. The chemical substances composition fibre right now influences the
overall performance of fibres.

2.3 LITERATURE SURVEY

The superior mechanical properties of pineapple fibre are related to its high polyose content
and relatively low microfibrillar angle. PALF has been used traditionally as threads, works
have just started on studying them as industrial material substances. Pineapple leaves are
composted or burned by the farmers due to lack of knowledge, consequently losing capacity
delivery of best fibres. Among several herbal fibres, pineapple leaf fibres (PALFs) shows
outstanding mechanical properties. They’re extracted from the leaves of the plant Ananus
cosomus happiness belonging to Bromeliaceae family by retting process. The elements of
pineapple fibre are polyose (70-82%), polymer (5-12%) and ash (1.1%). [1].

In the present study, pine apple leaf fiber polyester resin composites fabricated and tested for
their mechanical properties. Experiments conducted using Taguchi orthogonal array L9
considering the two deign parameters viz. weight fraction of the fiber and weight fraction of
carbon powder. The experimental results were analyzed using Taguchi optimization method.
Analysis of variance (ANOVA) carried out to obtain the significant values of tensile strength,
flexural strength, and impact strength at 95 % confidence level. Multiple regression analysis
technique is applied to obtain the mathematical model for tensile, flexural and impact
strengths. Optimizations of tensile, flexural and impact test parameters done with the help of
Taguchi analysis.[2]

The increase in cost and adverse effects on environment by synthetic fibre have compelled
the scientists and engineers to fabricate new assets i.e. natural composites that, besides having
their required physical properties, cheaper and environmentally friendly. During this context,

16
the use of inclusion of natural fibre over the artificial fibre in polymer matrix has received
momentum at a few levels during the last decade [3].

Perishable fibre materials will decompose into extraordinarily little fractions via organic
interest and adjustments to the chemical form of the material. Biodegradable fibres derived
from natural vegetation are copiously accessible and are once thought as waste. It is
represented as a coordinated device of making products for delivery, distribution, storage,
marketing, advertising and use. Natural fibre materials have many advantages like low cost,
denseness, renewable nature, biodegradability, relative non-abrasiveness [4-7].

The massive and large big selection convenience of natural fibre will reduce the pressure on
forest and agriculture. The versatile nature of it makes it suitable for motors, railway coach,
building construction, partition wall cupboards, or article of furniture for machinery uses and
packaging. Natural fibres are crucial agricultural biomass contributing to Malaysian
economy. Natural fibres reinforced into bio plastics are an honest example of inexperienced
composites that is virtually degradable by bacterium and enzyme. The usage of several raw
substances can facilitate to live an ecological balance in nature. Such composite substances
display off realistic power via weight importance relation, immoderate tensile and flexural
strength, excessive creep resistance, and excessive compactness. [8].

The Global Carbon market is forecasted to rise four percent per annum through 2008 to nine
million metric tons, virtually matching projected gains in world rubber consumption over
identical amount. The commercial enterprise nicely well worth of carbon is seen in several
industries like vehicle, herbal, packaging, aerospace, prescribed drugs, biomedical,
electricity, sports product, waste water treatment and serious metal removal for decades[9-
10].

Now a day’s unsaturated polyester (UP) organic compound is employed in applications like
automotive, building and electronic devices owing to the low price, characterization of high
performance and operational at a quick rates. However, as a result the polymer matrix should
face up to high mechanical and tribological masses, it's sometimes bolstered with nano fillers.
Distinctive Chemical alteration methods are used to improve the fibre, filler and matrix
adhesion, Due to the advance of adhesion between matrix, filler and fibre the mechanical
properties of the composites increase. Adding of hardener to the mixture with light
combining, then the mixture is poured from one corner into the mould (to avoid bubble

17
formation that causes cast damage) and also the uniform running is sustained till the mould is
stuffed to the desired level [11].

Taguchi methodology of research is used to cut down the total range of experiments. The
experimental data is analyzed using Taguchi method for optimal conditions of input
parameters. ANOVA can be dispensed on experimental information to search out the
numerous effects of the input parameters.

Taguchi methodology of design of experiments, genetic algorithmic rule and artificial neural
network are the vital tools used for strong design to provide top quality merchandise quickly
and at low price. Taguchi methodology relies on acting analysis or experiments to check the
sensitivity of a group of response variables to a group of control parameters (or freelance
variables) by considering experiments in “orthogonal array” with associate aim to achieve the
optimum setting of the management parameters. Orthogonal arrays offer a best set of well
balanced (minimum) experiments. The S/N ratios, which are log functions of desired output,
serve as the objective functions for optimization, help in data analysis and the prediction of
the optimum results. There are 3 types of S/N magnitude relation that are of common interest
for optimisation of static issues 1. Smaller-the-better, 2.Larger-the-better and 3.Nominal-the-
best. Different factors affect the strength at a different degree. A better feel for the relative
effect of the different factors is obtained by the decomposition of variance, which is
commonly called as analysis of variance[12-13].

The experimental result were analyzed using Taguchi optimisation methodology. Corn fibre
polypropylene (PP) composites were prepared and tested for their mechanical properties.
Maleic compound grafted polypropylene (MAPP) is supplementary to matrix and also the
mechanical properties of MAPP corn fibre composites was found and the results of
investigation are compared with those of PP composites. Experiments were planned using
Taguchi L12 orthogonal array considering the 2 design parameters viz. weight fraction of the
fibre and treatment. The experimental results were analyzed using Taguchi optimisation
methodology. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) obtains the numerous values of lastingness,
flexural strength and impact strength at ninety five percent confidence level [14].

Experiments are conducted using Taguchi L12 orthogonal array considering the 2 design
parameters viz. weight fraction of the fiber and treatment. Vakka fibre polypropylene (PP)
composites are fabricated and tested for mechanical properties. Maleic compound grafted
polypropylene (MAPP) is supplementary to matrix and also the mechanical properties of

18
MAPP Vakka fibre composites are found and compared with those of PP composites.
Experiments are conducted using Taguchi L12 orthogonal array considering the 2 design
parameters viz. weight fraction of the fiber and treatment. The experimental results were
analyzed using Taguchi optimisation methodology. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) obtains
the numerous values of lastingness, flexural strength, and impact strength at ninety five
percent confidence level. Multiple regression analysis technique is applied to get the
mathematical model for tensile, flexural and impact strengths [15].

19
 CHAPTER-3
EXPERMENTATION

20
 CHAPTER-3

EXPERMENTATION
3.1 Composite Fabrication:

3.1.1 Plan of experiment:

The design of experiments is carried out with the help of Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array to
reduce the number of experiments. The L9 orthogonal array contains nine rows and two
columns, with 9 degrees of freedom (df) to treat one for Mean value and two each for the
other factors. Each parameter level is set according to the L9 orthogonal array, based on
Taguchi method of design. The experimental results further transferred into S/N ratio using
MINITAB 17 software. The different levels of variables used in experiment listed in table
3.1. When response maximized (Larger-the-better), Taguchi uses the following formula for
S/N ratio ( η ).

Table 3.1: Selected Factors and their Levels

S.NO LEVELS
PARAMETER CODE

WEIGHT% OF PINE
1 X 2 4 6
APPLE LEAF FIBRE

WEIGHT%OF
2 CARBON POWDER Y 2 4 6
FILLER

The most suitable orthogonal array for experimentation is the L9 array as shown in
Table 3.2. Accordingly, a total of 9 observations are to be taken out.

21
 Table 3.2: Orthogonal Array (OA) L9

CONTROL FACTORS
S.NO X Y
1 1 1
2 1 2
3 1 3
4 2 1
5 2 2
6 2 3
7 3 1
8 3 2
9 3 3

In correspondence with the above OA, observations are conducted by means of their factors
and their levels as specified in table 3.1. The observation layout with the preferred values of
the factors is shown in Table 3.3. Every 9 observations are taken 5 times (45 observations in
all) to consider for the abnormality that may appear due to the noise factors.

Table 3.3: Orthogonal Array (OA) with control factors

CONTROL FACTORS
S.NO WEIGHT FRACTION OF WEIGHT FRCATION OF
THE PINEAPPLE(X) THE CARBON POWDER(Y)
1 2 2
2 2 4
3 2 6
4 4 2
5 4 4
6 4 6
7 6 2
8 6 4
9 6 6

3.1.2 Preparation of Composite Specimens: Many techniques are offered in industries for
producing of composites like compression moldings, vacuum molding, pultruding, and resin
transfer molding are some examples. The hand lay-up method of producing is one among
the only and best ways for manufacturing composites. A primary advantage of the hand lay-
up technique is to fabricate very large, complex parts with reduced producing times.

22
Extra advantages are straightforward instrumentality and tooling that are comparatively less
costly than alternative producing processes.

Figure 3.1 Mould for Tensile and Flexural Test. Figure 3.2 Mould for Impact Test.

3.1.3 FOR MEASUREMENT OF MECHANICAL PROPERTIES:

The standard test techniques are ASTM-D638M for determining tensile properties, ASTM-
D790M for determining flexural properties and ASTM-D256M for determining impact
properties of fibre-resin composites is used to prepare specimens as per dimensions.

The mould is prepared on smooth ceramic tile with acrylite sheet to the specified size.
At first the ceramic tile is cleansed with shellac (NC thinner) a spiritous product to ensure
clean surface on the tile. Then mould is prepared keeping the acrylite sheet on the tile. The
gap between the acrylite and the tile is filled with grease. A thin coating of PVA (polyvinyl
alcohol) is applied on the contact surface of specimen, using a brush. The resulting mould is
cured for 24 hours.

Hand layup method is adopted to fill the prepared mould with general purpose
polyester resin of ECMALON 4413 grade, which is an unsaturated polyester resin of
orthophthalic acid grade with clear colourless or pale yellow colour. Its viscosity is 500-600
CPS (Brokfield Viscometer) and specific gravity is 1.13 grams/c.c. at 25° C. Acid number
(mgKOH/g) is 22 and monometer content is 35%. Cobalt accelerator and MEKP catalyst are
added for curing the resin at room conditions. The quantity of each of these materials, added
is 1% of the volume of resin. The gel time is found to be about 25 min. The calculated weight
of the Carbon powder is added to the resin. The accelerator is mixed thoroughly with the
resin and the catalyst to avoid explosion. A thin coating of resin is applied to mould surface

23
and known weight of the fibre is placed along the longitudinal direction of the mould so that
the fibres are oriented at 0° along the axial direction of the specimen. Then the rest of the
mould is filled with the resin making sure that there are no air gaps in the mould. Then, a thin
polyethylene paper of 0.2mm thick is placed on the acrylite mould. A flat mild steel plate is
placed on the mould and left for 24 hours to cure. Later the specimen is removed and
machined to obtain the final dimensions. The specimen is cleaned with NC thinner and wiped
off to remove dirt particles. Five such identical specimens are prepared for each fibre and
filler content. The weight percentage of fibre and filler present in the specimen is determined
for each set.

Figure 3.3 Sample tensile specimens for testing

Figure 3.4 Sample flexural specimens for testing

24
 Figure 3.5 Sample Impact specimens for testing
3.2 MEASUREMENT OF COMPOSITE DIMENSIONS:

The measurement of composite dimensions is done for attaining good results in

testing. Initially, the fabrication of composite is done only with resin and with no fibre. The
specimens that are obtained are measured with the help of vernier caliper and outside
micrometer. The vernier caliper is used for measuring the length and breadth of the specimen
and the outside micrometer is used for measuring the thickness of the specimen.

3.3 MEASUREMENT OF WEIGHT OF COMPOSITE:

Initially, the fabrication of composite is done only with resin and with no fibre. These
specimens are weighed on analytical balance which is more accurate. The readings are noted
carefully and averages of the readings are taken which is used for measuring the weight
fraction of fibre.

3.4 CALCULATION OF WEIGHT FRACTION OF FIBRE:

The method involved in measuring the weight fraction of fibre for a certain percentage
is as discussed below:

Let the average weight of composite with full resin and with no fibre be (in grams).

Let the weight fraction of fibre required to be added in the composite be (in grams).

Weight fraction of the fibre

Here X = Required per cent of fibre in the composite.

25
3.5 TESTING EQUIPMENT:

The equipment used for testing of composites are tensometer and impact testing machine.
Their description is as follows

3.5.1 Tensometer:

A 2 ton capacity – Electronic tensometer, METM 2000 ER-I model is used to find the
tensile strength of composites. Its capacity can be changed by load cells of 20Kg, 200Kg &
2000Kg. A load cell 200Kg is used for testing composites. Self-aligned quick grip chuck is
used to hold composite specimens. A digital micrometre is used to measure the thickness and
width of composites. Tensometer is shown in figure 3.6.

Figure 3.6 Tensometer Figure 3.7 Impact testing machine

3.5.2. Impact Testing Machine:

Impact is a very important phenomenon governing the life of a structure. In

mechanics, an impact is a high force or shock applied over a short period of time when two or
more bodies collide. The charpy impact test with V-notch bar prepared as per standard from
test material, is held between two grips and a weight is allowed to swing from a known height
in such a way that it hits the notched bar in its path and breaks. The material absorbs some
amount of energy during fracture. In the Izod impact test the specimen is held in a vice.
Impact testing machine is in figure 3.7.

26
3.6. SPECIMEN STANDARDS:

3.6.1. Tensile Test:

The specimens for the tensile test were prepared according to the ASTM D638M
Standard. According to this standard the specimen size is 160mmx12.5mmx3mm. The
specimens were tested on an electronic tensometer. From the experimental data the stress
strain curve is plotted to determine the young’s modulus and tensile strength. A total of 5
different specimens were prepared for each weight fraction.

3.6.2. Flexural Test:

The specimens for the flexural test were prepared according to the ASTM D790M
Standard. The dimensions of the specimen as per this standard are 100mmx25mmx3mm. The
flexural test performed on the same electronic tensometer that was used to perform the tensile
test. Load and deformation values are noted and flexural modulus and flexural strength are
determined. A total of 5 different specimens were prepared for each weight fraction.

3.6.3. Impact Test:

The impact test specimens were prepared according to the ASTM D256 Standard. The
dimensions of the specimens as per this standard are 63.5mmx10mmx10mm. Impact test
(Charpy) was conducted on the specimen and the impact strength is determined. The energy
absorbed in the impact test will be a measure of toughness. A total of 5 different specimens
were prepared for each weight fraction.

3.7. CALCULATIONS:

3.7.1. Tensile Strength:

It is the defined as maximum stress that a material can withstand while being stretched
or pulled before failing or breaking.

Tensile strength = P/A

Where P = Maximum load,

A = Area of cross section.

27
3.7.2. Flexural Strength:

It is defined as a material’s ability to resist deformation under bending load.

Flexural strength S =

Where L = span length of specimen (mm)

b = width of the specimen (mm)

t = thickness of specimen (mm)

P = maximum load

3.7.3. Impact Strength:

The impact strength of the composite is calculated from the following relation.

Impact strength I =

Where E = energy absorbed by the specimen (j)

t = thickness of composites (m)

28
 CHAPTER-4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

29
 CHAPTER-4
RESULTS & DISCUSSIONS
4.1 Tensile, Flexural and Impact strength results:

The tensile, flexural and impact properties were found for different weight percentages of
pine apple leaf fibre and carbon powder. For each composition, 5 samples are prepared and
tested to achieve the repeatability in results. The variations of tensile, flexural and impact
strength with the weight percentage of fibre/filler are shown in table 4.1 and also in fig-4.1,
4.2 and 4.3 respectively.

Table-4.1: Tensile, Flexural and impact strength values.

PINE APPLE CARBON

TENSILE FLEXURAL IMPACT
SPECIMEN LEAF POWDER
STRENGTH STRENGTH STRENGTH
NO FIBRE WEIGHT
(N/mm2) (N/mm2) (J/mm)
WEIGHTT% %
1 2 2 22.47 138.12 20.35
2 2 4 23.21 140.42 24.74
3 2 6 24.18 140.35 30.53
4 4 2 29.67 142.78 32.67
5 4 4 28.47 138.94 34.24
6 4 6 27.24 137.75 32.47
7 6 2 24.47 144.05 26.37
8 6 4 22.02 139.70 28.54
9 6 6 23.24 142.84 30.36

30
Figure 4.1 Tensile strength variation for fibre reinforced composites

Figure 4.2 Flexural strength variation for fibre reinforced composites

31
Figure 4.3 Impact strength variations for fibre reinforced composites.

Table 4.2 Experimental results of tensile strength along with S/N ratio.

PINE
CARBON TS
APPLE
POWDER AVG SNRA
LEAF
WEIGHT (N/mm2)
FIBRE
1 1 24.16 25.93
1 2 25.36 26.02
1 3 26.72 26.52
2 1 31.32 28.46
2 2 30.24 28.91
2 3 29.16 28.93
3 1 26.64 27.30
3 2 24.71 26.33
3 3 25.52 26.57

32
Table 4.3 Experimental results of flexural strength along with S/N ratio.

PINE
FS
APPLE CARBON
AVG SNRA
LEAF POWDER
(N/mm2)
FIBRE
1 1 142.63 39.1
1 2 143.71 40.0
1 3 144.72 40.1
2 1 146.34 40.2
2 2 144.92 39.8
2 3 142.62 40.1
3 1 148.37 39.5
3 2 142.32 40.2
3 3 142.36 39.4

Table 4.4 Experimental results of Impact strength along with S/N ratio.

PINE
IS
APPLE CARBON
AVG SNRA
LEAF POWDER
(N/mm2)
FIBRE
1 1 26.02 28.35
1 2 28.86 30.93
1 3 32.96 32.90
2 1 36.69 32.66
2 2 38.26 33.31
2 3 33.96 32.63
3 1 30.89 30.98
3 2 32.46 31.06

33
 3 3 34.84 32.61

4.2 Taguchi analysis for tensile, flexural strength and Impact strength:

Experiment results for tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strength and S/N ratio
for each combination parameters is calculated and shown in table 4.2, 4.3, 4.4. The
influence of control factors (weight fraction of fibre-1 (X) and weight fraction of filler-2
(Y)) on the responses are obtained from the response tables of mean, S/N ratio and the
results are listed in table 4.6. Larger value of S/N ratios corresponds to better quality. So,
optimal combination of design parameters can be obtained as X2Y1 for tensile, X3Y1 for
flexural strength and X2Y3 for impact strength.

Table 4.5 Response Table for S/N ratio for Tensile strength
WEIGHT FRACTION WEIGHT FRACTION
LEVEL
OF FIBRE-1 OF FILLER-2

1 30.38 27.32

2 27.95 27.04

3 26.95 27.18

DELTA 1.42 0.42

RANK 1 2

Table 4.6 Response Table for S/N ratio for Flexural strength
WEIGHT FRACTION WEIGHT FRACTION
LEVEL
OF FIBRE-1 OF FILLER-2

1 43.03 40.26

2 40.39 40.96

3 40.49 40.39

DELTA 0.29 0.24

RANK 1 2

34
 Table 4.7 Response Table for S/N ratio for Impact strength
WEIGHT FRACTION WEIGHT FRACTION
LEVEL
OF FIBRE-1 OF FILLER-2

1 30.43 28.31

2 29.39 28.58

3 28.85 29.87
DELTA
2.17 1.16
RANK
1 2

Figure 4.4(a) S/N Ratio plot for Tensile strength

35
 Figure 4.4(b) S/N Ratio plot for Flexural Strength

Figure 4.4(c) S/N Ratio plot for Impact strength

4.3 Analysis of variance:

The purpose of the statistical analysis of variance is to investigate which design

parameter significantly affects strength of the composites. The analysis is carried out for

36
 the level of significance of 5% (the level of confidence is 95%). Two-way ANOVA
allow comparing population means when the populations classified according to two
(categorical) factors (weight fraction of the fibre-1 (X), weight fraction of the filler-2
(Y)). Analysis of variance results are listed in table 4.8, 4.9 and 4.10 respectively. From
ANOVA it can be concluded that the weight fractions of the fibre-1 is significant for
tensile strength, flexural strength and Impact strength.

Table 4.8 ANOVA table for tensile strength

ADJ ADJ F- P-
SOURCE DF SEQ SS CONTRIBUTION
SS MS VALUE VALUE
Wt. Fraction
of Pine Apple 2 4.2112 81.42% 4.2112 2.15562 22.18 0.005
FIBRE
Wt. Fraction
2 0.1153 14.02% 0.1153 0.10766 1.008 0.316
of carbon filler

Error 4 0.2655 4.56% 0.2955 0.08137

Total 8 5.4920 100.00%

Table 4.9 ANOVA table for flexural strength

F-
SEQ CONTRIBUTIO P-
SOURCE DF ADJ SS ADJ MS VALU
SS N VALUE
E
Wt. Fraction
of Pine Apple 2 0.18543 60.72% 0.18543 0.092714 11.47 0.022
FIBRE
Wt. Fraction
of Carbon 2 0.10919 28.40% 0.109119 0.054595 6.76 0.052
filler
Error 4 0.03232 10.88% 0.03232 0.008080
Total 8 0.32694 100.00%

37
 Table 4.10 ANOVA table for Impact strength
F-
SEQ CONTRIBUTIO ADJ P-
SOURCE DF ADJ SS VALU
SS N MS VALUE
E
Wt. Fraction
of Pine Apple 2 6.972 61.94% 6.972 3.4859 7.31 0.046
FIBRE
Wt. Fraction
of Carbon 2 2.375 21.10% 2.375 1.1876 2.49 0.198
filler

Error 4 1.908 16.95% 1.908 0.4770

Total 8 11.255 100.00%

4.4 Mathematical model using multiple regression analysis:

Multiple regression analysis is done using the statistical software package MINITAB-18. The
fitted line plots for tensile, flexural and impact strength are shown in figure: 4.5(a), (b) and
(c) respectively. These graphs show trends of tensile strength, flexural strength and impact
strength. These are varying linearly.

Fitted Line Plot Fitted Line Plot

TS-AVG = 29.25 - 0.062 Wt. Fraction of PineApple Fiber TS-AVG = 29.78 - 0.327 Wt. Fraction of Carbon Filler
34 S 2.9801 7 34 S 2.96533
R-Sq 0.0% R-Sq 1 .0%
R-Sq(adj) 0.0% R-Sq(adj) 0.0%
33 33

32 32

31 31
TS-AVG

TS-AVG

30 30

29 29

28 28

27 27

26 26

1 .0 1 .5 2.0 2.5 3.0 1 .0 1 .5 2.0 2.5 3.0

Wt. Fraction of PineApple Fiber Wt. Fraction of Carbon Filler

Figure 4.5(a) Fitted Line Plot for Tensile Strength

38
 Fitted Line Plot Fitted Line Plot
FS-AVG = 1 43.6 + 1 .367 Wt. Fraction of PineApple Fiber FS-AVG = 148.0 - 0.838 Wt. Fraction of Carbon Filler
1 51 S 2.32938
1 51 S 2.53476
R-Sq 22.8% R-Sq 8.6%
1 50 R-Sq(adj) 1 1 .8% 1 50 R-Sq(adj) 0.0%

1 49 1 49

1 48 1 48
FS-AVG

FS-AVG
1 47 1 47

1 46 1 46

1 45 1 45

1 44 1 44

1 43 1 43
1 .0 1 .5 2.0 2.5 3.0 1 .0 1 .5 2.0 2.5 3.0
Wt. Fraction of PineApple Fiber Wt. Fraction of Carbon Filler

Figure 4.5(b) Fitted Line Plot for Flexural Strength

Fitted Line Plot Fitted Line Plot

IS-AVG = 28.09 + 1 .393 Wt. Fraction of PineApple Fiber IS-AVG = 26.74 + 2.070 Wt. Fraction of Carbon Filler
37.5 S 4.01 874 37.5 S 3.76052
R-Sq 9.3% R-Sq 20.6%
R-Sq(adj) 0.0% R-Sq(adj) 9.3%
35.0 35.0

32.5 32.5
IS-AVG

IS-AVG

30.0 30.0

27.5 27.5

25.0 25.0

1 .0 1 .5 2.0 2.5 3.0 1 .0 1 .5 2.0 2.5 3.0

Wt. Fraction of PineApple Fiber Wt. Fraction of Carbon Filler

Figure 4.5(c) Fitted Line Plot for Impact Strength

Fig: 4.5: Fitted line plot for (a) Tensile strength, (b) Flexural strength, (c) Impact strength.

Mathematical models have been developed to evaluate the relationship between input and
output parameters. The output values of tensile strength, flexural strength and impact
strength have been used to construct the mathematical models. The functional relationship
between dependent output parameter with the input parameters could be postulated using
the following equation (2).

Z= A*(X)a * (Y)b _
(2)

where Z is dependent output variable such as tensile strength, flexural strength and impact
strength; X and Y are independent input variables such as weight fraction of the fibre and
treatment respectively; a and b are the exponents of input parameters. The above nonlinear
equation converted into linear form by logarithmic transformation and can write as
equation (3).

39
 log(Z) = log(A)+a*log(X)+b*(Y) - (3)
Minitab 18 statistical analysis software has been used to estimate the parameters of the
above first order model. The data regression constants are calculated by performing multi
parameter linear regression analysis which are shown in tables 4.11, 4.12 and 4.13 for
tensile, flexural and impact strength respectively.

Table 4.11 Data regression constants for Tensile strength.

TERM COEF T-VALUE P-VALUE

Constant 1.1625 41.94 0.000

LOG(X) 0.0221 0.29 0.768

LOG(Y) -0.0217 -0.26 0.772

Table 4.12 Data regression constants for Flexural strength.

TERM COEF T-VALUE P-VALUE

Constant 2.06440 431.86 0.000

LOG(X) 0.0139 1.24 0.263

LOG(Y) -0.0109 -0.99 0.362

Table 4.13 Data regression constants for Impact strength.

TERM COEF T-VALUE P-VALUE

Constant 1.3614 39.44 0.000

LOG(X) 0.1095 1.38 0.217

LOG(Y) 0.1208 1.51 0.182

40
 The equations of logarithmic transmission of tensile strength, flexural strength and impact
strength are shown in (4), (5) and (6) respectively.

Log (tensile strength) = 1.1625 + 0.0221 LOG(X) - 0.0217 LOG(Y) (4)

Log (Flexural strength) = 2.06440 + 0.0139 LOG(X) – 0.0109 LOG(Y) (5)

Log (Impact strength) = 1.3614+0.1095 LOG(X) + 0.1308 LOG(Y) (6)

After taking antilog on both the sides for the equations (4), (5) and (6) the modified
equations for tensile strength, flexural strength and impact strength are shown in (7), (8)
and (9).

Error must be calculated when the predicted values of tensile strength, flexural strength
and impact strength calculated from equations (7), (8) and (9) which to be compared with
experimental values. The predicted error percentage is between predicted and measured
output values at each experimental condition calculated by using the equation (10).

Table 4.14 Error percentage for experimental and predicted values of tensile strength

WEIGHT% WEIGHT% PREDECTED

TENSILE
OF OF TENSILE ERROR (%)
STRENGTH
FIBRE-1 FILLER -2 STRENGTH
1 1 22.47 27.01 -6.95
1 2 23.21 26.85 -5.06
1 3 24.18 26.42 -0.21
2 1 29.67 27.24 12.70
2 2 28.47 27.01 9.47
2 3 27.24 26.67 8.96
3 1 24.47 27.74 -3.84
3 2 22.02 27.52 -11.71
3 3 23.24 27.10 -5.91

Tensile strength = 29*(X) 0.0231* (Y) -0.0227 (7)

Flexural strength = 146.015 (X) 0.0149 * (Y) -0.0119 (8)

Impact strength = 26.387 (X) 0.1195* (Y) 0.1308 (9)

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Table 4.15 Error percentage for experimental and predicted values of flexural strength

WEIGHT% WEIGHT% PREDECTED

FLEXURAL
OF OF FLEXURAL ERROR (%)
STRENGTH
FIBRE-1 FILLER -2 STRENGTH
1 1 138.12 144.21 -1.27
1 2 140.42 142.81 0.68
1 3 140.35 142.21 1.23
2 1 142.78 145.23 0.48
2 2 138.94 144.31 -1.32
2 3 137.75 143.13 -1.21
3 1 144.05 146.47 1.13
3 2 139.70 145.03 -1.32
3 3 142.84 144.71 1.23

Table 4.16 Error percentage for experimental and predicted values of Impact strength

WEIGHT% WEIGHT% PREDECTED

IMPACT ERROR
OF FIBRE- OF IMPACT
STRENGTH (%)
1 FILLER -2 STRENGTH
1 1 20.35 24.24 -9.15
1 2 24.74 26.45 -8.07
1 3 30.53 28.42 4.19
2 1 32.67 26.34 14.38
2 2 34.24 29.21 12.09
2 3 32.47 31.24 2.25
3 1 26.37 28.45 -5.96
3 2 28.54 30.12 -7.06
3 3 30.36 32.21 -6.88

Error (%)= - (10)

Tables 4.14,4.15 and 4.16 show the comparison of predicted values and experimental
values of tensile strength, flexural strength and impact strength respectively along with
error (%). For tensile strength, 92.231% of the points are within 20% of the error and for

42
flexural strength, 94.638 % of the points are within 20% of the error and for impact
strength, 95.23% of the points are within 20% of the error which is acceptable. It can see
that experimental and predicted values are very close and hence the mathematical model
is suitable.

43
 CHAPTER-5
CONCLUSIONS

44
 CHAPTER-5

5.1 Conclusions:

The polyester Pineapple fiber - carbon filler hybrid composite are prepared as per ASTM
standards. The pecimens are subjected to mechanical loading and mechanical properties are
determined. The results were analyzed and compared. Optimization of tensile, flexural and
impact test parameters are done with the help of Taguchi analysis.
 The effect of reinforcement of pineapple leaf fibre and carbon powder as filler into
polyester resin matrix is investigated.
 The experimental results supported the successful fabrication of pineapple fibre and
carbon powder reinforced polyester resin composites and confirmed the fact that
pineapple leaf fibre and carbon powder can be used as fibre/filler to improve the
mechanical properties of the composite with polyester.
 It can be concluded from S/N ratio that, optimal combination of design parameters are
4% pine apple leaf fiber and 2% carbon powder weight fraction for tensile strength,
6% pine apple leaf fiber 2% carbon powder weight fraction for flexural strength, and
4% pine apple leaf fiber 6% carbon powder weight fraction for impact strength.
 It can be concluded from ANOVA that weight fraction of the fibre is significant for
tensile test, flexural and impact tests.
 The results of present work indicate better mechanical properties for pineapple-carbon
polyester, which makes it better suited for the automotive applications.

Though the composites have some merits and demerits, the combination of the useful
properties of two different materials, quicker processing time, lower manufacturing cost, etc.,
make them as a versatile material in the field of engineering and technology. Hence with this
conclusion, it is sure that the technology shows composite is the most wanted material in the
recent trend.

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5.2 Scope for Future work:
The present research work leaves a wide scope for future investigators to explore many other
aspects of such hybrid composites. Some recommendations for future research include

 The other properties of composites such as fatigue and tribological behaviour may be
determined using extensive experimentation.
 The present study includes the estimation of mechanical properties only. The study
can also be extended to investigate the thermal properties.
 The specimens are fabricated without the treatment of fibres. This work can be
further extended by providing fibre treatment.
 The experiments can be extended by adding other potential natural fibers, by
changing the fiber orientation and fiber content, their mechanical and machining
characteristics may be analysed.
 The experiments can be extended by increasing the number of machining parameters,
such as tool geometry, tool materials, etc.
 The experiments can be repeated using different tool inserts with wider geometries.
 The experiments can be extended to other machining processes, such as milling,
reaming etc.
 The experimental data can be modelled and analyzed using other modelling
techniques such as fuzzy logic, ANSIS etc.

46
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