Variability of mechanical properties of flax fibres for composite reinforcement. A review

Flax fibres are a promising reinforcement in the development of biocomposites and are finding new applications in transport structures. However, there is a perceived problem with plant fibres related to the variability of the properties of these natural materials. This paper describes the factors which affect variability, from plant growth conditions to fibre sampling and testing. A large number of test results are presented (characterization of elementary fibres, bundles, assemblies of bundles, and unidirectional composites), and it is shown that provided fibre supply is carefully controlled, characterization procedures are appropriate, and manufacturing processes are optimal then excellent composite properties can be achieved with low variability.