Multiscale Characterization of Jute/Flax Biocomposites: Enhancing Stiffness and Durability for Load-Bearing Rehabilitation Devices.

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a substantial rise in the utilization of natural fibers as a means of reinforcement in the production of polymer matrix composites. This is mostly owing to the inherent benefits it offers, including its eco-friendly nature, widespread availability, low density, and relatively high strength. Jute and flax fibers are examples of natural fibers that exhibit superior mechanical qualities as compared to other natural fibers. These fibers are widely available across the Indian subcontinent, making them cost-effective and conveniently accessible. The present work details the process of creating and assessing composites made from Jute and Flax fibers as reinforcement with epoxy. Flax and Jute fibers were combined with epoxy to create composite samples with varying compositions. The study subsequently assessed the influence of fiber content on the composite specimens, with emphasis on their structural strength characteristics, rendering them appropriate for use in rehabilitation devices. The findings indicate that the optimal mechanical properties were achieved at a fiber weight fraction of 40%, with the hybrid Jute-Flax-epoxy (JFE) composite attaining a maximum tensile strength of 59.4 MPa, flexural strength of 419.31 MPa, and impact strength of 72.7 kJ/m². Flax-epoxy composites demonstrated superior tensile and flexural performance compared with Jute-epoxy composites, attributed to the higher Young's modulus of Flax fiber (60 GPa vs. 43.8 GPa for Jute). These results demonstrate the suitability of Jute and Flax fiber laminates for the fabrication of lower-limb prosthetic feet and other load-bearing rehabilitation devices.