Mechanical Performance and Hydrophilic Behavior of Jute–Glass Hybrid Composites Fabricated by Vacuum Infusion

The demand for lighter and stronger materials has pushed research toward hybrid composites. In this work, hybrid composites combining glass and jute fibers were fabricated using the vacuum infusion process. The mechanical and hydrophilic behaviors of the prepared samples were evaluated in accordance with the relevant ASTM standard. Ten laminate configurations(S1-S10) were prepared by varying the stacking sequence of glass woven roving, glass CSM and alkali treated jute mats. Hybridization significantly improved performance relative to S9. Sample, S4 showed the highest tensile strength of 172.48 MPa and the highest hardness number of 92 (L scale) compared with the other prepared samples. It also exhibited the maximum flexural strength of 271.04 MPa. The highest impact strength was found in S8 at 64.56 kJ/m2. The order of stacking jute and glass layers in the laminate also changed the outcome. With a different stacking sequence, tensile stress went up 11.62%, flexural modulus rose 61%, and impact strength increased 60%. Water absorption was studied in both fresh and salt water. Placing glass fiber on the outside of the laminate reduced water intake while Placing jute on the outer layers of the laminate resulted in increased water absorption (1.35%, 0.86%, 3.72%, and 1.26% in different cases). In salt water, the composites exhibited reduced absorption, recording 0.47%, 0.46%, 1.60%, and 0.80% for the corresponding hybrid laminate. The results show that jute–glass hybrids work better than only jute composites. Glass fiber provided strength, while jute gave low cost and environmental benefit. Surface treatment of fibers was also seen to improve bonding and reduce water penetration. These findings suggest that jute–glass composites can be used in cars, boats, and aerospace where strength and sustainability are both needed.