An experimental study on moisture absorption for jute-epoxy composite with coatings exposed to different pH media

SummaryNatural fibres are widely used in the area of composite material applications because of their low density, low cost and acceptable specific mechanical properties. However natural fibres have some disadvantages such as the poor water resistance due to hydrophilic cellulose fibres resulting in poor mechanical properties. Research is being done on reducing moisture absorption of natural fibre-based composites, by using advanced manufacturing techniques as well as by providing different coatings.The purpose of this work is to study the moisture absorption and mechanical properties of jute-epoxy composites. Jute fibres are treated with NaOH before manufacturing of composite laminate in order to improve adhesion with epoxy material. Further jute-epoxy composite specimens were coated with epoxy resin and acrylic paint. Composite specimens with and without coatings are subjected to absorption in solutions of different pH media, for 28 days (666h). The effect of coatings on reduction in moisture absorption for jute-epoxy composite is presented in this current work