Development of graphene-modified jute/glass hybrid composites via fiber wrapping for enhanced structural applications

Abstract

Jute fiber, an abundantly available natural fiber, is increasingly explored for structural composite applications. However, its inherent flaws and the limited development of optimized textile architectures have restricted its use in high load-bearing engineering applications. Hybridization with glass fiber offers a promising route to enhance the mechanical performance of jute composites while reducing the reliance on synthetic materials. Nonetheless, challenges remain in achieving high jute content and sufficient strength within hybrid structures. To address these limitations, this study presents the development of a novel hybrid preform architecture using a fiber wrapping technique, where glass fibers serve as the core and jute fibers are wrapped around them. Additionally, graphene oxide (GO) treatment was applied to modify jute fibers, improving their compatibility with glass fibers. Mechanical testing revealed that the GO-treated hybrid composite (G.cGFJF) demonstrated the highest performance, achieving a tensile strength of 272.63 MPa, a flexural modulus of 10.42 GPa, and an impact resistance of 85.56 kJ m⁻². Moreover, water absorption was significantly reduced to 1.12% in GO-coated samples, attributed to enhanced surface hydrophobicity and interfacial bonding. These results highlight the strong synergistic effects between the high-strength glass fiber core and the interlocking jute fiber wrap, indicating that GO-modified jute/glass hybrid composites hold great promise for next-generation structural components in automotive, aerospace, and civil engineering sectors where performance and sustainability are critical.