Optimizing Composite Materials for Automotive and Aerospace Applications: Carbon vs Glass Fibre Reinforcement

This study examines the tensile properties of carbon fibre (CF), glass fibre (GF), and their hybrid composites, with and without polylactic acid (PLA) reinforcement, to guide material selection in structural and lightweight engineering. The growing need for high-performance, cost-effective, and sustainable materials in aerospace, automotive, and civil engineering drives this research, which evaluates trade-offs between strength, ductility, and cost. Experimental tensile testing compared pure CF and GF composites (thermoset matrix) with PLA-reinforced variants and hybrid configurations (CF + GF + PLA). Results showed pure CF composites had the highest strength (363.99 MPa) over GF (338.46 MPa). With PLA, CF + PLA retained higher strength (96.12 MPa) than GF + PLA (63.90 MPa), while hybrids (CF + GF + PLA) achieved intermediate strength (89.05 MPa), balancing cost and performance. PLA-based composites also exhibited greater ductility, with CF + PLA reaching 21.02 mm elongation vs. 14.3 mm for pure CF, enhancing flexibility but reducing strength. Key findings suggest pure CF is best for high-strength applications, while hybrids offer cost savings and improved ductility. The study validates theoretical models using experimental data, thereby aiding engineers in optimising composites for enhanced performance and lightweight designs. It highlights the importance of fibre-matrix compatibility and hybridisation in achieving the desired mechanical properties, thereby supporting sustainable engineering solutions.