Mechanical Properties and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis of Thermoplastic‐Natural Fiber/Glass Reinforced Composites

The mechanical properties and dynamic behavior of thermoplastic composites based on polypropylene/glass fibers and polypropylene/natural fibers (i.e. kenaf, hemp, flax) are presented. A survey is given on some aspects, crucial for the use of these composites in structural and non‐structural components such as their vibration‐damping response, in relation to the composite compaction level and the manufacturing procedure. In order to investigate a wide vibration frequency range, including acoustic frequencies, different testing techniques, both with forced and free vibrations, were applied. A comparison between natural fiber and glass fiber reinforced laminates is presented. Compaction levels, allowing to obtain the best compromise between mechanical performance and damping response, are investigated.