Hybrid composites

Abstract

The incorporation of several different types of fibres into a single matrix has led to the development of hybrid biocomposites. The behaviour of hybrid composites is a weighed sum of the individual components in which there is a more favourable balance between the inherent advantages and disadvantages. Also, using a hybrid composite that contains two or more types of fibre, the advantages of one type of fibre could complement with what are lacking in the other. As a consequence, a balance in cost and performance can be achieved through proper material design. The properties of a hybrid composite mainly depend upon the fibre content, length of individual fibres, orientation, extent of intermingling of fibres, fibre to matrix bonding and arrangement of both the fibres. The strength of the hybrid composite is also dependent on the failure strain of individual fibres. Maximum hybrid results are obtained when the fibres are highly strain compatible. This chapter focuses on the different types of hybrid composites. The judicious designing of hybrid composites results in a good balance of properties.