Polymer Matrix Characterization and Interfacial Engineering in Bamboo/Sisal/Chopped Mat Hybrid Fiber Composites

Year : 2026 | Volume : 14 | Special Issue 02 | Page : 123 135
    By

    Pagolu Sai Vamsi,

  • S. N. Padhi,

  1. Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Koneru Laksmaiah Education Foundation, Vaddeswaram, Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh, India
  2. Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Koneru Laksmaiah Education Foundation, Vaddeswaram, Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

The present investigation focuses on the characterization of polymer matrices and the interfacial behavior of bamboo, sisal, and chopped strand mat (CSM) fiber-reinforced epoxy composites. The work aims to understand how natural fibers influence the curing, thermal, and adhesion properties of hybrid composite systems. Experimental analyses were carried out using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to evaluate curing kinetics, viscoelastic response, thermal stability, and chemical interactions at the fiber–matrix interface. Composites were fabricated by the hand lay-up technique with controlled curing conditions. Among the different configurations studied, the bamboo/sisal/CSM hybrid system showed a marked reduction in curing activation energy, a higher glass transition temperature (68.5°C), and improved thermal resistance (312°C at 5% weight loss). Interfacial shear strength measurements (18.3 ± 1.5 MPa) further confirmed better bonding between the treated natural fibers and the epoxy matrix. FTIR spectra indicated the presence of hydrogen bonding and covalent linkages, demonstrating effective load transfer mechanisms. The overall results establish that hybridization of natural and synthetic fibers enhances polymer crosslinking, stability, and mechanical integrity. The study provides fundamental insights into the design of sustainable, high-performance composite materials suitable for use in automotive panels, building components, and lightweight structural applications.

Keywords: Polymer matrix composites, epoxy resin characterization, interfacial engineering, curing kinetics, thermal analysis, natural fiber composites

[This article belongs to Special Issue under section in Journal of Polymer & Composites (jopc)]

How to cite this article:
Pagolu Sai Vamsi, S. N. Padhi. Polymer Matrix Characterization and Interfacial Engineering in Bamboo/Sisal/Chopped Mat Hybrid Fiber Composites. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(02):123-135.
How to cite this URL:
Pagolu Sai Vamsi, S. N. Padhi. Polymer Matrix Characterization and Interfacial Engineering in Bamboo/Sisal/Chopped Mat Hybrid Fiber Composites. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(02):123-135. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2026/view=239387


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Special Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 14
Special Issue 02
Received 15/10/2025
Accepted 29/12/2025
Published 28/03/2026
Publication Time 164 Days
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