Cellulosic Bast Fibers, Their Structure and Properties Suitable for Composite Applications

Abstract

A wide variety of natural fibers can be applied as reinforcement or fillers in composites. Bast fibers, such as flax and hemp, have a long history of cultivation and use. They are characterized by low weight and excellent range of mechanical properties. The properties of bast fibers are influenced by conditions of cultivation, retting and processing. Pretreatment and surface modification of bast fibers is conducted for optimization of the interfacial characteristics between fiber and matrix as well as improvement of their mechanical properties. Applicaion of bast fibers as reinforcement to replace the glass fibers to composite manufacture brings positive environmental benefits.