Mechanical and Environmental Comparison of Natural Fibers and Glass Fiber in the L-RTM Method

The applicability of flax fiber-reinforced composites as an environmentally friendly alternative to glass fiber-reinforced plastics (GFRP), commonly used in outdoor structures such as water slides, has been investigated. While glass fiber is associated with high energy consumption and significant environmental impacts, flax fiber offers a sustainable solution due to its renewable nature, low density, and biodegradable properties. The mechanical and environmental performance of flax fiber-reinforced composites manufactured using the L-RTM (Light Resin Transfer Molding) method was evaluated, with a particular focus on sensitivity to water and moisture, and design considerations to mitigate these effects were discussed. In this method, L-RTM is employed as a vacuum-assisted, closed-mold technique particularly suited for medium-scale production of high-quality components with smooth surfaces on both sides. In this context, the essential conditions for natural fiber-reinforced composites to serve as a viable alternative to glass fiber in water slide applications have been identified.