Selection of plant-based fibers for composite materials
The problems of utilization and recycling of polymers and composites are considered. One of the solutions may be the creation of biodegradable materials based on plant materials. Here, we theoretically and experimentally explored if plant-based fibers could be used in composite materials. We proposed that classical methods be employed to characterize plant-based fibers and that classical theories be used to predict and construct the structure of plant-based composites. The critical length of the fibers was estimated against the experimentally measured elastic modulus and strength of plant-based bast fibers of flax, nettle and hemp. The resultant critical length values were 172 µm for nettle, 205 µm for hemp and 273 µm for flax. It was noted that the higher the fiber strength and elastic modulus, the greater the fiber critical length. It can be explained by the binder and the reinforcing filler having highly anisotropic properties. The monolithicity theory implies equality between the shear stresses at the fiber-matrix interface and the fiber strength. Hence, the more similar the properties of the fibers and matrix, the shorter critical length is required to create adequate adhesion between the fiber and the matrix. Examples of plant-based fivers differing in length and composites based thereon were considered: the longest bast fibers of flax, nettle and hemp, medium-length fibers of Miscanthus and flax shover, and the shortest fibers of oat hulls.