The impact of fibre processing on the mechanical properties of epoxy matrix composites and wood-based particleboard reinforced with hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) fibre

Abstract This work investigated the impact that processing of hemp ( C. sativa L.) fibre has on mechanical properties unidirectional fibre-reinforced epoxy resin composites loaded in axial tension, and particleboard reinforced with aligned bundles applied to one surface panel. For this purpose, mechanically processed (decorticated) un-processed bundles, obtained from retted un-retted stems, were utilised. The results clearly show reinforcement both materials. Epoxy exhibited 3.3 times greater tensile strength when compared un-reinforced polymer, while for particleboards, bending those was 1.7 than particleboards. Moreover, whether or also affected performance, especially composites. example, 49% fracture hemp. In wood-based however, difference not significant. Additionally, observations zone specimens showed different failure characteristics depending Both particleboards apparently able retain structural integrity after composite’s failure. On other hand, used as reinforcement, a clear cut across specimen, fibre-reinforcement mainly failing at composite's zone.