While reinforcement of natural and synthetic fibers in polymers has been very common, inclusion of metallic wire mesh along with these fibers has secondary reinforcement in composite making is rare. In view of this, the present research addresses to the issues related to fabrication and characterization of epoxy-based hybrid composite reinforced with multiple layers of flax fiber along with SS-304 steel wire mesh. Similar sets of composites are also considered replacing flax fibers by glass fibers. Physical, mechanical and micro-structural properties are evaluated under laboratory conditions. Sliding wear characteristics are studied. Further, it is proposed to evaluate drilling characteristics of these composites under different test conditions.

Keywords: Hybrid Composites, Metallic Fiber, Wear Performance, Drilling