Man made fibers have superior mechanical properties when compared with natural fibers, but their application is restricted due to cost and non-biodegradability concerns. Contrary to manmade fibers, natural fibers are biodegradable, renewable, and relatively inexpensive. The water absorption and inferior mechanical properties of natural fibers are poses a challenge to employ for industrial applications. The objective of this study is to improve the mechanical, structural, thermal, and water absorption properties of C. dichotoma natural fiber/polyester composites using hybridization with carbon fibers. The hybrid composites are made using the hand lay-up procedure, and subsequently by compression molding. Three distinct composite combinations were developed by altering the stacking sequence of (F) and carbon fiber (C) as F/F/F, F/C/F and C/F/C. It was observed that the hybrid composite C/F/C has 48% higher tensile strength, 32% higher flexural strength, and 55% higher impact energy when compared to single fiber composite (F/F/F). Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis revealed the strong juncture among the fibers and matrix of failed hybrid specimens. Further, Fourier transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy employed has identified the chemical and functional groups in the hybrid composite. Water absorption decreased with the insertion of carbon fiber in the layers of the hybrid composite laminate. It was found out from thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) that the hybrid composite was thermally stable up to 560 ºC and is recommended for moderate and high-temperature applications since their working temperatures range from 220 ºC to 560 ºC.

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