Sustainable structural applications: integrated analysis of flax fiber composite materials

Sustainability and the reduction of ecological impact are becoming global priorities in the construction industry, driving innovation through the adoption of eco-friendly materials. Compo-site materials made from bio-based resins and natural fibers offer a promising solution to these challenges, combining lightness, strength, and versatility. However, it is essential to thoroughly understand their mechanical performance to ensure their effective use in structural applications. This research focuses on the experimental, analytical, and computational modeling of flax fiber composites. An integrated approach was used to determine the composite material's elastic modulus based on its individual components' properties. To better understand the material's overall behaviour, a macro-mechanical model and Classical Laminate Theory (CLT) were applied to describe the mechanical response of flax fiber-reinforced composites. Additionally, a series of experimental tests were conducted to accurately assess the composite’s mechanical strength. Given that failure modes are closely tied to shear stress between laminate layers, the study also examined the composite’s strength and interlaminar shear behaviour, as interlaminar shear stress can lead to delamination and compromise material strength. Experimental findings were used to validate both analytical and numerical models. The primary outcome of this study is an innovative computational approach for analyzing natural fiber composites, enabling an evaluation of their performance and applicability in structural applications.