Developments in the characterization of natural fibre properties and in the use of natural fibres for composites

All composite models contain the Young's modulus or the tensile strength of the reinforcing fibres. Therefore the essential prerequisite to come to an agreement between the theoretical approaches and the practical results is the exact measurement of these parameters. Some aspects of the measurement of the natural fibre E-modulus are discussed. Furthermore a new process to produce long fibre reinforced thermoplastic granules is presented. These long fibre granules can be processed by conventional plastic equipments.