Composites with hemp reinforcement and bio-based epoxy matrix

• Published in: Composites. Part B, Engineering Vol. 67; pp. 220 - 226
• Main Authors: Di Landro, Luca, Janszen, Gerardus
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Kidlington Elsevier Ltd 01.12.2014; Elsevier
• Subjects: A. Fibers; A. Recycling; A. Thermosetting resin; Applied sciences; B. Vibration; E. Resin transfer molding (RTM); Exact sciences and technology; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; Hemp; Laminates; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Polymer matrix composites; Polymers; Reinforcement; Resin transfer molding; Resins; Technology of polymers; Thermoplastic resins; Thermosetting resins; A. Thermosetting resin; A. Recycling; A. Fibers; B. Vibration; E. Resin transfer molding (RTM); Strengthening; Transport properties; Laminate; Fiber reinforced material; Epoxy resin; Plant fiber; Transfer molding; Composite material; Natural fiber; Hemp; Mechanical properties; Tensile property; Experimental study; Thermal properties; Vibration damping; Vacuum molding; Plant origin; Flammability; Woven material; Rheological properties
• ISSN: 1359-8368; 1879-1069
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compositesb.2014.07.021

The use of natural fiber reinforcements for the production of ecofriendly composites has arisen considerable interest both in thermoplastic and thermoset based materials. In the latter case, the matrix is often an epoxy based polymer, which allows remarkable performance, but that cannot be considered eco-friendly since it is non-biodegradable and is produced from non-renewable sources. This strongly impairs the environmental friendly character of the resulting composite material. The aim of this work was to study the characteristics and performance of a thermoset bioepoxy resin, which is partly based on natural components, to be used in hemp reinforced laminates. The permeability of the hemp fabric as well as the rheological and thermal behavior of the resin were studied in view of their fabrication by resin infusion techniques. The results showed that laminated composites could be easily obtained with a vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process. Static, dynamic and vibration-damping tests were performed to evaluate limits and potentials of such biocomposites.