Description

As we all know, Composites are the future. They are better than metals in many ways and thus have a wide range of applications. With the help of composites, a very high strength to weight ratio can be obtained with a well optimized design. So, the idea here is to use Natural Fibers instead of Fiberglass, Carbon Fiber, Kevlar or Aramid and other commonly used fibers to make it a sustainable and green structure thereby reducing the carbon footprint. Natural Fiber laminates can use both thermosets and thermoplastics as the matrix. However, each of them will impart different attribute to the structure ultimately. Advantages of Natural Fibers: - Low specific weight, which results in a higher specific strength and stiffness than FIberglass - It is a renewable resource. - Producible with low investment at low cost. - Friendly processing, no wear of tooling, no skin irritation - Thermal recycling is possible, where FIberglass and Carbon Fiber causes problems in combustion furnaces. - Good thermal and acoustic insulating properties Disadvantages of Natural Fibers: - Low Impact strength - Absorbs moisture which causes change in fiber strength - Needs treatment to remove moisture before it can be used as a composite by infusing with a thermosetting/thermoplastic matrix - Properties vary with life and weather Companies like Mercedes have already recognized the potential of natural fiber composites and are using them for interior parts of the Car body (see pic attached) Some examples of natural fibers that can be suitable for this application of Bicycle trailer: Flax, Jute, Hemp, Abaca, Bamboo, etc

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