Composites with hemp reinforcement and bio-based epoxy matrix

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.