Tensile Behavior of Epoxy Matrix Composites Reinforced with Pure Ramie Fabric

Recently, the natural fibers have been studied as alternative reinforcement material to the use of synthetic fibers. Aiming to improve the properties of natural fibers composites, it is investigated the use of natural fibers fabrics, since they provide multidirectional reinforcement and enables the introduction of a larger fiber volume fraction. In this work, it was investigated the tensile behavior of the epoxy matrix composites reinforced with different volumefractions offabric made of Ramie, a highly resistant lignocellulosic fiber. The specimens were made by pressing the fabric with liquid resin to guarantee total impregnation, and then cutting the fabric in the mold format. Finally ,the fabric layers were placed into the mold with the liquid resin and catalyst. They were cured for 24 h and tested. The results revealed an increase in the tensile strength and almost no effect in the elastic modulus with the increase of fabric volume fraction.