Effect of fibre configurations on mechanical properties of flax/tannin composites

Flax reinforced tannin-based composites have a potential to be used in vehicle applications due to the environmental advantages and good mechanical properties. In this paper, the effects of fibre configuration on mechanical properties of flax/tannin composites were investigated for nonwoven and woven fabric lay-up angles (UD, [0 degrees, 90 degrees](2) and [0 degrees, +45 degrees, 90 degrees, -45](2)). The tannin/flax composites were prepared by compression moulding. The manufactured specimens were then characterized for quasi-static tensile properties, dynamic mechanical properties and low-energy impact performance. Failure mechanism was further investigated using microscopy and demonstrated the need for further adhesion improvements. The study shows that the UD fabric reinforced composite performs better in tensile strength and modulus whereas [0 degrees, +45 degrees, 90 degrees, -45](2) composite provides the best impact energy absorption performance. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.