Interlaminar, free vibration, HDT and water absorption properties of braided flax woven fabric PLA biocomposites

Abstract

The presented research investigates the influence of braided flax woven-fabric filled with polylactic acid (PLA) polymer on interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), free vibration, heat deflection temperature (HDT) and water absorption. For this purpose, flax fibre-braided yarn and its fabric are prepared using solid braiding and plain weaving techniques. Then, PLA biocomposites are developed by solution casting and hot-press moulding processes. Shear test results showed, the addition of braided flax fibre increased the ILSS of composites compared to unreinforced PLA. Natural frequencies of the composite beams are improved with the braided flax reinforcement. Composites filled with three fabric layers showed higher frequency due to higher structural strength and stiffness associated with these composites. Bio-composites HDT is enhanced with the addition of braided flax fibre from 61.78% to 132.97%. The results of a water absorption test in distilled and seawater revealed that the composites have a relatively high water uptake in distilled water. © 2023 The Textile Institute.