This research was conducted with the aim of exploring the usage of advanced
lightweight materials such as aluminum matrix composite and aramid fiber
reinforcement polymer for increased structural integrity of the hood of an
automotive vehicle. The automotive sector is moving toward lightweight materials
because of the need to enhance fuel efficiency, the importance of reducing
environmental impact, and the need to ensure safety of new-generation
automobiles. While traditional materials such as steel and aluminum might be
very rigid and durable, they also add huge weight to the overall vehicle design.
Consequently, these vehicles become more fuel inefficient, which could lead to
higher emissions and pollution. The two materials chosen for this research are
very promising, considering that both are characterized by high specific
strength and impact resistance capabilities. The low weight of the materials is
also an added bonus. While AMC is manufactured by consolidating aluminum with
ceramic or metallic components, AFRP employs aramid fibers in a polymer matrix.
The test performed in this research to evaluate the suitability of the two
materials for the said purpose include tests on impact resistance, tensile
strength, and hardness. The materials were tested concerning the standards of
the Charpy test, the universal testing machines, and the Vickers scale. The
findings of the test produced differing results concerning the two materials.
AMC demonstrated an average impact resistance of 76 kJ/m2, a tensile
strength of 402 MPa, and a hardness of 122 HV. AFRP, on the other hand,
registered superior values for the said test: an average impact resistance of
153 kJ/m2, a tensile strength of 556 MPa, and a hardness of 122 HV.
Consequently, the research concludes that AFRP is the most suitable material for
hood design in the automotive industry.