Parametric Analysis of Bolted Joint Performance in Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites
Abstract
This study presents a comprehensive parametric analysis of bolted joint performance in natural fiber reinforced polymer (NFRP) composites. The influence of key parameters— including bolt diameter, edge distance, hole clearance, tightening torque, washer presence, and fiber orientation—was experimentally investigated using fabricated composite specimens subjected to tensile loading. Results revealed that joints with [0/90]ₛ stacking sequence, tighter bolt-hole clearance, optimal torque (6 Nm), and washers exhibited improved stiffness, higher load-bearing capacity, and favorable bearingtype failure modes. Conversely, inadequate edge distance and excessive preload led to premature failures such as shear-out and fiber crushing. The findings offer valuable design recommendations for optimizing mechanical joints in NFRP composites and support their application in sustainable structural components for automotive, aerospace, and civil engineering domains.
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