Transverse properties of hemp/PLA composite fabricated with micro-braiding technique

In the present study, transverse mechanical properties of hemp fiber reinforced poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composites were investigated. Three molding conditions were selected according to a previous study. To discuss the effects of matrix properties on composite properties, monolithic PLA specimens were also prepared at molding temperature of 170, 190, 210, and 230 degrees C. It is confirmed that the weight-averaged molecular weight affected on the mechanical properties of monolithic PLA and also on the transverse properties of PLA.