Compressive Characterization of Hemp Fiber–Epoxy Matrix Composite for Lightweight Structures

Renewable green reinforcement resources are gaining in importance as environmental awareness is increasing. Natural fiber-reinforced composites have potential for use in several automotive parts. The present work focuses on the development and characterization of hemp fiber–epoxy matrix composites. Compressive characterization of the composite was conducted by quasistatic and high-strain-rate (HSR) tests. The results revealed that the compressive strength and modulus of several types of composites were comparable to those of the neat matrix resin. According to the results of the HSR tests, the strain rate sensitivity of the composite decreased with increasing fiber content and the peak stress and energy absorption were different from those obtained in the quasistatic test.