Hybrid bio-based composites from UPE/EML blends, natural fibers, and nanoclay

Hybrid bio-based composites from blends of petroleum and vegetable oil resins reinforced with natural fibers and nanoclay platelets can lead to synergistic property enhancements from the multi-scale constituents. Twelve material designs with average hemp fiber content of 30 wt%, varying nanoclay, up to 5 wt%, and epoxidized methyl linseedate (EML), up to 30%, in unsaturated polyester (UPE) were processed and their tensile, impact, and moisture properties were experimentally characterized. The resulting biocomposites displayed synergistic behavior with the effects of bio-resin addition being complemented by nanoclay and vice versa. Optimal performance with balanced properties (stiffness, toughness, and resistance to moisture absorption) was observed in material systems with 2.5 wt% nanoclay and up to 20% EML. Overall, hybrid biocomposites show promise in applications that require excellent stiffnesstoughness balance.