A Preliminary Investigation into the Influence of Chemical Composition on the Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Flax (Linum usitattisimuni) Straw

摘要

Increasing demand for natural fibers means that flax is considered as an alternative to cotton. Economic supply of fibers depends on optimal fiber extraction. This paper investigates the effect of chemical composition of flax stems on their mechanical properties. Dynamic mechanical analysis monitors changes in stem properties during different stages of plant maturation. Sequential chemical extraction enables the role of chemical components to be studied. Knowledge of the stem mechanical properties can assist in determination of both optimal harvest date for a flax crop and the level of mechanical decortication required for optimal fiber separation and cleanliness.