Abstract

The hybrid effect of fibers on the mechanical behavior of thermoplastic composites is the most important for
structural applications. This article deals with the individual and hybrid effect of 10 wt. % short glass fibers and
10 wt. % short carbon fibers on the mechanical behavior of 80/20 wt. % PA66/PP blend. These composites are
produced by melt mixing method using twin screw extruder followed by the injection molding. The mechanical
properties such as tensile, flexure, and impact behavior of the composites are studied as per ASTM method.
Further, the hardness and density of the composites were also discussed. Experimental results revealed that the
reinforcement of hybrid short fibers into the blend greatly enhanced mechanical behavior of PA66/PP composites.
Increase in tensile strength by 77%, 104% flexural strength, and 20.8% reduction in elongation was exhibited by
the blend due to the hybrid effect of fibers. Significant improvement in strength of the composites was observed due
to individual effect of the fibers. The synergistic effect between the fibers and matrix blend supported in improving
the mechanical behavior. The strain rate of the hybrid composites was deteriorated due to the hybrid effect.
The impact strength of the hybrid composites is reduced due to the brittle nature of the hybrid filled composites.
Fiber fracture, fiber pull-out, and fiber misalignment are the some of the mechanisms observed through scanning
electron microscopy photographs.