Composition, structure, and mechanical properties of hemp fiber reinforced composite with recycled high-density polyethylene matrix

Hemp fiber composites with recycled high-density polyethylene matrix were prepared in various compositions ranging from 20 to 40% of fiber volume fraction. The fiber–matrix interface was improved using 5% by weight NaOH-treated hemp fiber in each composite system. The surface morphology and chemical compound of hemp fiber after chemical treatment were analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). This study indicated that hemp fiber-recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE) composites could achieve maximum tensile strengths on the order of 60 MPa. Among the tested samples, the composites with 40% of fiber volume fraction demonstrated the best mechanical properties with regard to tensile strength, elastic modulus, and flexural strength and modulus.