Synergetic effects of hemp-banana-bamboo hybridization on mechanical, fracture and dynamic properties of cellulose-rich natural fiber composites

This study investigates the mechanical, fracture, and vibrational properties of hybrid natural fiber reinforced composites, incorporating hemp, banana, and bamboo-based Cellulose-rich fibers. Combining cellulose-rich fibers with complementary properties, seven different composites (pure and hybrid) with epoxy as the matrix were prepared using compression molding method. Unlike prior studies focusing on single fiber composites, this work systematically examines two and tri-fiber hybrid composites to optimize mechanical and dynamic performance. The composites were characterized through mechanical (Tensile, impact, flexural, interlaminar shear strength tests), fracture and vibration tests. In addition, finite element modeling and statistical analysis were performed to complement and validate experimental findings and provide a more comprehensive understanding of composite performance. Among the hybrids, hemp-banana composite exhibited higher flexural strength (133 MPa) and interlaminar shear strength (18.17 MPa), while banana composites showed the highest tensile (112 MPa) and impact strength (307.93 J/m). The tri-fiber composite showed the highest natural frequency (47.90 Hz), emphasizing its dynamic stability. The synergetic implication of fiber hybridization includes enhanced stress transfer, improved interfacial bonding and higher energy absorption, resulting in hybrid composites with better strength, stiffness and vibrations resistance. Finite element simulations closely matched experimental results, affirming the predictive accuracy of the models. Statistical analysis confirmed the significance of fiber hybridization on the tensile, flexural and impact strengths. The results indicate that the Cellulose-rich fiber hybridization enhances specific properties such as energy absorption and dynamic stability, attributed to the synergetic fiber interaction and improved interfacial bonding. These composites show great promise for sustainable applications in automotive interiors, construction panels and sport equipment, where weight reduction, mechanical performance and environmental impact are critical.