Abstract :
The use of plants fibre reinforced composites
has continuously increased during recent years. Their low
density, higher environmental friendliness, and reduced
cost proved particularly attractive for low-tech applications
e.g., in building, automotive and leisure time industry.
However, a major limitation to the use of these materials in
structural components is unsatisfactory impact performance.
An intermediate approach, the production of glass/
plant fibre hybrid laminates, has also been explored, trying
to obtain materials with sufficient impact properties, whilst
retaining a reduced cost and a substantial environmental
gain. A survey is given on some aspects, crucial for the use
of glass/plant fibre hybrid laminates in structural components:
performance of hybrids when subjected to impact
testing; the effect of laminate configuration, manufacturing
procedure and fibre treatment on impact properties of the
composite. Finally, indications are provided for a suitable
selection of plant fibres with minimal extraction damage
and sufficient toughness, for introduction in an impactresistant
glass/plant fibre hybrid laminate
