Development of quasi-unidirectional fabrics with hemp fiber: A competitive reinforcement for composite materials

This study focuses on the development and mechanical testing of a quasi-unidirectional woven hemp fabric for composite applications. The fabric is designed to combine the advantages of easy handling, impregnability by resin and fiber alignment. In this sense, low twisted rovings, low crimping characteristics and a high roving density in the main direction were used. The results show that the manufacturing process proposed for this highly unbalanced woven fabric is less aggressive than that for a balanced pattern, and the effective tensile properties of the fibers are preserved. This innovative hemp fabric is also used to manufacture unidirectional and cross-ply laminated composites. The results indicate competitive properties relative to those of commercial flax-based reinforcements with rigidities similar to those of composites made with quasi-unidirectional woven fabrics, non-crimp fabrics and tapes.