Analysis of the properties of a hemp fibre derived from Cannabis sativaas a renewable source

Hemp fibres can replace synthetic fibres due to their eco-friendly qualities. In this study, a natural fibre was extracted from hemp fibre (Cannabis sativa) by modifying the fibre surface with 10% NaOH and comparing the chemical characterisation and morphological analysis of hemp fibre, as well as fabricating a composite laminate with 40% hemp fibre and 60% epoxy matrix using the hand lay-up technique. Based on the results, chemically treated fibre is suitable as a natural reinforcement material in polymer composites. Furthermore, alkali-treated fibre composite exhibited on average 4% better mechanical properties, including tensile strength (46.92 MPa), flexural strength (48.12 MPa), and impact energy (18 J), and 3% better thermal properties, including heat deflection temperature (67 °C), thermal conductivity (0.149 W/mK), and thermal expansion (1.90/°C). The failure mechanism of hemp fibre has been determined using morphological SEM analysis, which demonstrates a decrease in wax, lignin, and hemicellulose in alkali-treated hemp fibre.