Rebound characteristics of flexible and stiff jute rubber/epoxy hybrid composite under low-velocity impact

This present work aims to assess the low-velocity impact response of novel configuration based on jute/rubber/epoxy flexible and stiff composites having varying layup sequences using an experimental study. The Charpy and drop weight impact tests are done according to the standards. Drop weight low-velocity impact test at an energy level of 15J was performed using a conical shape impactor. Carboxylated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (XNBR) containing carbon fillers (N330 and N550) consisting 35 phr concentration each is used in the stacking sequence of the composite due to its high toughness and energy dissipation property. During drop weight tests conducted at a 15J energy level, the flexible RJRJR composite exhibited a peak force of 486 N, whereas the stiffer RJEJR composite demonstrated a peak force of 1075 N. The flexible composite shows no damage for the energy level tested. However, the stiff composite made using epoxy in between jute layers fails due to the matrix cracking in the composite. The peak force and specific energy absorption is dependent on stacking configuration and increases with the addition of rubber interface in the stiff composite. The energy absorption of stiff composite is higher as compared to flexible composite as indicated by the peak force.