Investigation of optimum stacking sequence of pineapple leaf fiber composite laminate using numerical approach

Increasing awareness of environmental problems has stirred investigators to reconnoitre ingredients that are workable, recyclable, and have a condensed ecological track. Polymer composites using reinforced natural fibres, such as those obtained from pineapple, hemp or bamboo, are in advance popularity. These fibres can be utilised as another possibility to synthetic-fibres, resulting in more environmentally friendly composite products. In the present work composites based on unsaturated polyester resin reinforced with pineapple leaf fibers (PALF) are studied. The fibers are given NaOH chemical treatment with a concentration of 10%. To further enhance the properties of the composites, orientation and stacking sequence of fibers are modified. Stacking sequences inter-ply along with orientations (0°,30°,45°,60°,90°) are used. Mechanical testing include Tensile Tests and Flexural Tests are analysed. The mechanical properties of the composites under various conditions of orientation angle, stacking sequence, loads along with chemical treatment are analysed using experimental and numerical approach (ANSYS). It is observed that tensile strength and flexural strength of the laminate at orientation angle 30° attained highest strength compared with other orientation angle with an average percentage increment in the strength about 24%.