Mechanical and tribological performance of ramie composite reinforced with perforated Al/Cu foils

Abstract The use of composite materials has expanded rapidly in recent years due to their improved performance and environmental friendliness, particularly in the fields of energy generation, automotive, and aerospace. The vehicle bonnet engine shield and automobile interiors were the focus of this study’s investigation of the microstructural properties of ramie epoxy composite reinforced with aluminium and copper foil. Three different composite combinations (RAC1-RAC3) were created utilizing the hand layup method, each with a unique circular geometrical design constructed of copper and aluminium foil with a thickness of 0.03 mm. Tensile, flexural, impact, hardness, erosion, and wear rates were among the mechanical and tribological properties that were ascertained using ASTM test specimens. The findings show that in terms of hardness value (24 HV), tensile strength (58 MPa), impact strength (1.4 J), and flexural strength (93 MPa), the composite RAC3 (60 mm pitch staggered hole) performs mechanically better than other composites. According to erosion studies, erosion is also significantly less when it affects the surface that faces aluminium rather than copper. The highest frictional coefficient at maximum load was attained by the RAC3 composite sample.