A comparative analysis of jute, glass, and carbon fiber composites cured with amine-based hardeners: mechanical, thermal, morphological, and chemical characterization

This study examines the mechanical, thermal, morphological, and chemical properties of composites reinforced with jute, glass, and carbon fibers, utilizing a resin matrix cured by various amine-based hardeners. The composite materials were produced using a hand lay-up technique followed by compression molding. A thorough analysis of their performance revealed specific patterns in tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strength, Rockwell hardness, and chemical resistance. Thermal analysis demonstrated that carbon fiber composites exhibited the highest stability at high temperatures, while glass fibers showed moderate stability, and jute fibers displayed the lowest thermal durability. Scanning electron microscopy emphasized the importance of selecting appropriate hardeners to enhance fiber-matrix interaction. This investigation provides a basis for customizing fiber-reinforced composites to suit particular application needs, with carbon fibers proving optimal for high-performance applications, glass fibers suitable for cost-effective moderate-strength uses, and jute fibers ideal for environmentally friendly purposes.