(267b) Extrusion Versus Compression Molding On the Mechanical Properties of Hemp Fiber Reinforced Composite with High Density Polyethylene Matrix

Hemp fiber has recently captured a significant interest in the science and engineering community because of its high specific strength and stiffness with an environmental friendly feature. Current research demonstrates that the strength of single hemp fiber can obtain 1100 megapascal with the corresponding elongation at break ranging from 1.3-4.7%. This paper reports a systematic study relating the aspect ratio of fiber on the mechanical properties of hemp fiber reinforced polymeric composites. Fabrications of materials were performed by both using C.W. Brabender 19.05mm Extruder and heat-treated compression at the temperature of 300°C. The tensile strength, elastic modulus and flexural strength of the composite were tested on a constant rate of extension testing machine following ASTM standards. Glass transition temperature and thermal properties were characterized using DMA, DSC and TGA. Surface morphologies of fiber and fracture surfaces of the composites were observed using the SEM and XRD methods.