Free vibration analysis of a composite reinforced with natural fibers employing finite element and experimental techniques

Abstract

Composites have been extensively used in the modern era in wide range of applications. This article deals with the study of vibration characteristics of natural fiber reinforced composite beam in which Aloe vera fiber is reinforced in epoxy matrix and is used in combination with glass-epoxy. Finite element method of analysis is adopted using Ansys software. Effects of several parameters like laminate stacking sequence, support conditions, material hybridization, and number of layers, etc. on the natural frequency of natural fiber reinforced composite beam are analyzed. Experimental study on Aloe vera fiber reinforced composite beam is also conducted for validation.