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Journal of Polymer & Composites Original Research Special issue

Influence of Static Sequences on the Thermal Behavior of Eco-Friendly Pineapple/Ramie Composites

  1. Manikandan Kannan Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai
  2. Ramesh Velumayil Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai
  3. Suresh Dharman Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, St. Joseph’s Institute of Technology, Chennai

Abstract

The increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally responsible materials has driven the exploration of natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites as potential alternatives to conventional synthetic materials. Among various natural fibers, pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) and ramie fiber are notable for their complementary characteristics—PALF offers excellent insulating behavior and lightweight structure, while ramie provides high thermal stability and strength. In the field of Eco-friendly composite product manufacturing, the processing temperature holds significant relevance in influencing overall performance. Therefore, the relevant aspects of the thermal properties of composites must be considered, and accurate thermal measurements using composite test methods are necessary. In this study investigates the thermal properties of six composite specimens with different stacking sequences. The specimens were evaluated based on thermal conductivity (CT), heat deflection temperature (HDT), and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). Results indicate that stacking sequences PRRPRRP exhibits the highest thermal conductivity (0.345 W/mK), while RPRPRPR has the lowest (0.205 W/mK). The highest HDT (250°C) was observed in stacking sequences PPRRRPP and RPRPRPR, suggesting superior thermal stability. Conversely, stacking sequences RPPRPPR demonstrated the lowest HDT (87.8°C). The coefficient of thermal expansion varied significantly, with stacking sequences RPPRPPR having the lowest CTE (1×10⁻⁶ /°C), indicating minimal dimensional changes under thermal stress, while RPRPRPR showed the highest CTE (2×10⁻⁵ /°C). Overall, the study emphasizes that static stacking sequence plays a crucial role in determining the thermal characteristics of natural fiber composites. These findings highlight the influence of stacking sequence on thermal behavior, providing insights for optimizing composite materials in high-temperature applications, particularly eco-friendly composites for use in construction, automotive, and thermal barrier systems.

Keywords

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