Mechanical Properties of Natural Fibers Reinforced Polymer: Comparative Study

Abstract- In the present research, the mechanical properties of natural fiber reinforced polymers (NFRP) – known as green composites – have been investigated. After a large literature review done on the physical properties of a large set of natural fibers, an analytical model is used to determine the all 3D elastic properties; Young’s and Shear moduli, Poisson’s ratio and the ultimate strengths for an 8H-satin fabric. The main objective is to investigate the potential replacement of the glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) by the NFRP in order to reduce the high expanses. An analytical modeling is adopted to evaluate the 3D elastic properties and ultimate strengths based on a multi-scale homogenization method. Tsai-Wu and Christensen Failure criteria and a damaged stiffness model are used to predict the failure of composites. A Flax fiber reinforced polymer has shown better mechanical properties with a twice specific modulus and better specific strength compared to the GFRP. Keywords – , , , , .