Influence of Hybrid Fiber Reinforcement on the Interfacial Bonding and Fracture Toughness of Epoxy-Based Polymer Composites Under Cyclic Loading

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of hybrid fiber reinforcement on the interfacial bonding and fracture toughness of epoxy-based polymer composites under cyclic loading. Carbon, glass, and aramid fibers, both individually and in hybrid combinations, were incorporated into the epoxy matrix to evaluate their thermal, mechanical, and fatigue-resistant properties. Thermal characterization revealed distinct material behaviors, with carbon fibers exhibiting superior thermal conductivity, while glass and aramid fibers provided enhanced thermal stability. Hybrid composites demonstrated improved thermal uniformity and reduced expansion coefficients, optimizing dimensional stability. Mechanical testing showed enhanced interfacial bonding and fracture toughness in hybrid composites due to improved stress transfer and reduced delamination tendencies under cyclic loading conditions. Numerical simulations validated experimental results, highlighting the role of thermal and mechanical synergy in optimizing composite performance. These findings emphasize the potential of hybrid fiber-reinforced epoxy composites for advanced applications, particularly in aerospace and automotive industries, where lightweight materials with high thermal and mechanical reliability are critical. The study demonstrates that hybridization not only balances the inherent trade-offs of individual fibers but also introduces unique properties, making it a promising approach for tailoring composites to meet specific operational demands