Characterization and modeling of process parameters on tensile strength of short and randomly oriented Borassus Flabellifer (Asian Palmyra) fiber reinforced composite

Natural fibers have been in a wide use since the evolution of the human race. Catching up the “Eco drive”, engineers were looking for eco-friendly alternatives for plastic fiber. In the due course many natural fibers have been tested and some were able to make their stand becoming economically viable. The present work proposes to prepare and test a Natural Fiber (Asian Palmyra) Reinforced Composite (NFRC). The study is planned in accordance to a 3-Level Factorial Design and determine the variation of Tensile Strength (TS), of short and randomly oriented Palmyra NFRC, under control parameters such as alkali treatment time, fiber length and fiber volume%. The present paper focuses to model the influence of process variables on TS through response surface methodology. The mathematical model which is developed to predict tensile strength is found statistically valid and sound within the range of the factors.