Mechanical properties of sustainable fiber-reinforced composites

High-performance natural fiber composites have attracted global research interest due to their renewable nature, inherent biodegradability, excellent specific properties, and wide availability. The mechanical performance of single plant fiber-reinforced composites is relatively low, which severely limits their application in engineering. In this paper, the mechanical properties and failure mechanisms of ramie/basalt fiber-reinforced composites are studied. In order to do that, first, two biodegradable natural fibers, ramie fiber and basalt fiber, were selected as the reinforcing phase. Bisphenol A-type epoxy vinyl ester resin (HS-4430RT) was selected as the matrix. Four different configurations ([Ramie4]S, [Basalt4]S, [Ramie2/Basalt2]S, and [Basalt2/Ramie2]S) of composite laminates were fabricated using the vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding process. Then, quasi-static tensile tests and acoustic emission detection were conducted to investigate the mechanical performance of its tension specimens. Finally, the mechanical performance of the four different configurations of composite laminates under various impact energies was studied through a low-velocity impact test, and the impact response and energy absorption characteristics were evaluated. The research findings will provide valuable guidance for developing environmentally friendly ramie-basalt fiber-reinforced composites that meet mechanical performance requirements.