Ferreira, J. A. M.Capela, C.Costa, J. D.2025-11-272025-11-272010-12-25Ferreira, J.A.M., Capela, C. & Costa, J.D. A study of the mechanical properties of natural fibre reinforced composites. Fibers Polym 11, 1181–1186 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12221-010-1181-7.1229-9197http://hdl.handle.net/10400.8/14751This paper presents the results of a current research of the tensile properties: ultimate strength and stiffness modulus in composites using natural reinforcements. Hemp short fibres and pine sawdust were randomly distributed in polypropylene matrices to produce composite plates with 5 mm thickness by injection moulding technique. The specimens were cut from these plates with bone dog shape or plane bars, and tested in tensile and four points bending, respectively. Stiffness modulus and ultimate stresses were obtained for different weight fraction content of reinforcement and discussed taking in account the failure modes. Four series of pine sawdust reinforced specimens were immersed in water in periods up to 20 days. Periodically, the specimens were removed from the water recipient and immediately tested. The damage effect of water immersion time was discussed based in the tensile results and in the water absorption curves.engPolymer compositesVegetable fibresMechanical propertiesjournal article10.1007/s12221-010-1181-71875-0052