Fabrication, Characterization and Analysis of a Plantain Fiber Reinforced Composite Anti-Crash Helmet

Abstract

The use of natural and synthetic fibres as fillers in reinforced hybrid composite materials are rapidly advancing in the field of engineering and technology due to its tailored properties. Presently, natural fibres are better alternatives in terms of biodegradability, low cost, high strength, water resistance and antistatic nature when compared to conventional materials. Many industries recognise the advantages of components and products which are designed and produced from fibre reinforced composite materials instead of metals. Therefore, this study aims to develop a crash helmet using Plantain Fibre Reinforced Composite (PFRC) material and to evaluate properties such as compressive strength, impact energy strength, water absorption rate and the electrical conductivity by subjecting the developed samples of the PFRC to each of the tests. A crash helmet was developed by hand lay-up method using Plaster of Paris (POP) as the mould. From the experimental results, it is evident that the PFRC exhibited superior properties and can be used as alternatives compared to conventional materials in this application