Characterisation of polymer based hybrid composites containing jute-wood waste powder: thermal and mechanical properties

In this study, hybrid bio-composites were reinforced with varying proportions of wood dust (WD) and jute fibers were fabricated using an unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) matrix. The reinforcement ratios employed were 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75, and 0:100 (WD:jute), while the matrix-to-reinforcement ratio was kept constant at 20:80. The physical, mechanical, and thermal conductivity properties of the composites were experimentally evaluated. Composites with a high WD content exhibited relatively low water absorption (51.08%). In contrast, those with a high jute fiber content were found to be more suitable for insulation applications due to their favourable properties, including low density (497 kg m−3) and thermal conductivity (0.0925 W m−1K−1), as well as high thermal resistance (0.32 m²K W−1), ultrasonic pulse velocity (1171 m s−1), and compressive strength (4 MPa). Therefore, the selection of the reinforcement ratio should be carefully tailored to the intended application to optimise composite performance. Furthermore, for jute-rich composites, additional research is recommended to enhance moisture resistance through surface treatments or the incorporation of hydrophobic additives. This study highlights the potential for developing sustainable building materials using natural and waste-derived reinforcements.