Effect of corncob powder on the mechanical behavior of glass fiber/epoxy hybrid composites

The incorporation of natural fibers into composite materials serves as an environmentally sustainable approach by integrating biodegradable components. By blending natural and synthetic fibers, the utilization of natural fibers in hybrid composites can be expanded, resulting in potential cost reductions in production. This study investigates the mechanical properties of glass fiber/epoxy hybrid composites reinforced with corncob powder. The composite specimens were fabricated using a layering method, incorporating glass fiber, epoxy resin, and corncob powder. Five different ratios of corncob powder to epoxy resin were tested (10:90, 40:60, 50:50, 70:30, and 80:20) to evaluate their tensile, flexural, and impact performance. Statistical analysis using ANOVA was conducted to interpret the results and determine the optimal composition. The composite with 10% corncob powder exhibited superior tensile strength (37.28 MPa) and flexural strength (805.75 MPa), attributed to enhanced resin-particle bonding and load transfer. The impact strength peaked at a 70:30 ratio, indicating improved toughness at moderate filler content. These results highlight the potential of corncob powder as a sustainable, eco-friendly filler that enhances mechanical properties while reducing environmental waste.