Dynamic mechanical analysis and effects of moisture on mechanical properties of interwoven hemp/polyethylene terephthalate (PET) hybrid composites

A dynamic mechanical analysis was undertaken to determine the influence of moisture on the mechanical properties of interwoven hemp/polyethylene terephthalate (PET) hybrid composites. Composite laminates were fabricated using vacuum infusion process; form epoxy resin reinforced with interwoven hemp and PET fibres. Woven hemp, woven PET, and interwoven hemp/PET hybrid composites were produced. The hybrid hemp/PET composites yielded the highest final residue % due to the PET fibres which improved the thermal stability. The glass transition temperatures of the woven hemp, woven PET, and interwoven hemp/PET hybrid composites were 68, 67, and 69 degrees C, respectively. Water absorption tests were conducted, and tensile and flexural tests were conducted on the wet and dry specimens. The water uptake of the hemp/PET hybrid composite was half that of the woven hemp composites. The tensile and flexural strengths of the interwoven hemp/PET hybrid composites were 4% and 22% greater than those of the woven hemp composites, respectively. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.