Mechanical performance of 3D woven jute/green epoxy composites with novel weaving patterns

Green composites have ecofriendly features that are technically and economically feasible while minimizing the pollution. It refers to the combination of degradable fibers mostly cellulosic materials and natural resins to develop green composites. Since mechanical performance of such structures is a concern for industry, by playing with the position and pattern of yarns in woven fabric, these properties can be optimized. This research focuses on the development and characterization of novel 3D woven jute/green epoxy composites having hybrid interlocking patterns. Four conventional derivatives of 3D woven fabrics i.e. orthogonal layer to layer (OLL), orthogonal through thickness (OTT), angle interlock layer to layer (ALL), angle interlock through thickness (ATT) and three novel 3D woven fabrics i.e. H1 (combination of OTT and ATT binder yarns), H2 (combination of OTT and ALL binder yarns), H3 (combination of orthogonal layer to layer warp and weft interlock called as bi-directional interlock) were developed using different binding patterns on dobby loom. Tensile, flexural, and short beam shear tests were performed to check the mechanical performance of the developed composites. OTT composite structure showed the highest values of tensile strength, modulus, and maximum force both in warp and weft directions as compared to the other 3D interlock structures, due to least interlacement/crimp of binder yarn. While ATT composite exhibited the highest value of flexural strength and modulus both in warp and weft directions due to through thickness angle binder yarns. H3 composite showed the highest values of force and short beam shear strength in warp direction.