A preliminary evaluation of matricaria maritimum fibres for polymer reinforcement

This short communication describes results from a preliminary characterization of the dimensions and mechanical properties of matricaria maritimum fibres. The aim is to develop a complementary industrial application of these plants, which are grown along the coast mainly for pharmaceutical use. The fibres are shown to be of small diameter, 5–10 μm, and tubular in form. Nano-indentation on fibres and tensile tests on fibre bundles provide an indication of the mechanical behaviour of these fibres, which are similar to those of sisal (leaf fibre) and miscanthus (grass fibre), and may be interesting for reinforcement of polymer matrix composites.