Effect of stearic acid treatment on the properties of aligned short hemp fibre mats and their potential use as reinforcement in polypropylene matrix composites

The main objective of this study was to assess the effect of stearic acid vapour treatment on hemp fibre mats produced using dynamic sheet forming, and the potential use of these treated mats as reinforcement in polypropylene matrix composites. Stearic acid was successfully applied through vapour treatment, appearing to form a layer on fibre surfaces. It was found that the presence of stearic acid increased hydrophobicity and thermal stability of fibre mats. It was also found to increase thermal stability of polypropylene matrix composites as well as their strength.