Exploratory results for composites of natural fibres mats with a natural matrix of epoxidized vegetable oils

Composites were prepared by impregnating non-woven mats of mixed natural fibres, mainly flax, hemp and a small percentage of polylactic acid, with an epoxidized soybean oil/maleic anhydride matrix resulting in a composite made up of 85% natural material. These composites comprised 65% matrix resin and 35% natural fibres and were light coloured, and had a good modulus of elasticity and modulus of rupture in the bending mode. The composites made up of 50% matrix resin and 50% natural fibres also gave good results when tested in tension. The best results appear to be obtained by using (i) higher curing temperatures (180 degrees C) with long post-curing times and (ii) medium temperature (150 degrees C) and longer press times (360s).