Estimation of the elastic anisotropy of sisal fibres by an inverse method

This paper is concerned with an inverse method for the characterization of the elastic anisotropy of plant fibres. A good knowledge of the properties of composites reinforced with these fibres is essential for the safe design of the related structures. In this work, experimentation and analytical modelling were thoroughly combined to optimize the determination of plant fibre properties from their related composites. The experimental work focused on the manufacture and characterization of unidirectional (UD) sisal/epoxy composites. Tensile tests were performed to measure the axial and off-axes stiffness of these composites. Tests' data were eventualy used in an optimization process based on a micromechanical model to estimate the fibres' elastic constants. Sisal fibres used herein exhibited a high degree of elastic anisotropy.