Processing and modeling of the mechanical behavior of natural fiber thermoplastic composite: Flax/polypropylene

Abstract A proposed modeling approach to calculate the mechanical properties of thermoplastic matrices reinforced with natural fibers is suggested. This model aims to solve the great deviation trends observed in the fiber content especially out of the range 10–40% volume fraction v_f. The model considers the transfer of fiber load hand over from fibers pull out to fiber load bearing. Different cases of the matrices are studied. Namely, matrix with either elastic or elastic plastic behavior, matrix with either brittle or ductile failure strain in comparison with the reinforcing fiber. Length and orientation efficiency factors for stiffness and strength are exploited. Another factor describing the even distribution of the fibers and the amount of corresponding matrix in adhesion is developed. This factor gives insight to the compounding process. Experimental plan is carried out to investigate the fiber loading of 0–50% v_f and different matrices namely polypropylene PP and maleated anhydride polypropylene MAPP. The suggested model is tested versus both the current experimental data and the literature results. The model shows good matching with the experimental results in a big domain of the fiber v_f. POLYM. COMPOS., 2009. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers