Experimental investigation into the use of natural rein-forcements for sustainable composite materials

Abstract

The present work investigates the manufacturability of different composites reinforced with natural fibres that are hemp and bamboo vinyl. Feasibility of different processes were studied and mechanical properties of obtained composite materials were examined by using non-destructive analysis and tensile tests to assess the manufacturability. Hemp fibres were manufactured by using braiding technology to produce differently oriented textiles. Bamboo reinforcement were employed in form of vinyl sheets. Matrices were made of traditional or innovative polymeric materials. The composite materials were processed through Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM) or Resin Powder Moulding (RPM). Applicability onto different shapes were assessed. The obtained material performances have been compared with both analytical and numerical models to evaluate their applicability. Eventually, results are discussed pointing out foreseen opportunities for the industrial application of investigated materials.