Investigating the properties of hybrid Abutilon indicum and okra fiber-reinforced composites

This study systematically evaluated the mechanical and thermal properties of hybrid Abutilon indicum (AI) and okra fiber-reinforced epoxy composites. The composite was fabricated by needle punch weaving and a hand layup process. Various compositions of AI and okra fibers were used for fabrication, and the subsequent characteristics of the resulting composites were analyzed. Mechanical tests, including tensile testing, flexural testing, compression testing, and impact testing, were carried out to determine the properties of the resultant composites. The results showed that 35 wt% fiber loading in nonwoven composites significantly improved the mechanical properties, with increases of 4.75% in tensile strength, 3.32% in flexural strength, 4.23% in compressive strength, and 6.57% in impact strength. composites with 40 wt% fiber loading. Among the composites, the H4 sample exhibited the highest tensile strength (49.521 MPa) and flexural strength (72.523 MPa), attributed to the optimal fiber content and effective matrix wetting. The compression strength and impact energy also peaked in the H4 sample due to the balanced fiber properties and efficient load transfer. This study highlights the potential of AI and okra fiber hybridization in creating eco-friendly, high-performance epoxy composites, with significant mechanical and thermal property enhancements achieved at specific fiber loadings and ratios.