FlaxPreg

Prepreg composite made of unidirectional (UD) flax fibers or fabrics impregnated with epoxy resin to create a high strength, lightweight structure. Flax is rapidly renewable, light (low density of 1.45 gcc), has an electrical insulation (CTE) close to 0, and has a higher damping (impact absorption) ratio than carbon and glass. Sheets of prepreg can be processed using woodworking and metal working tools including drilling, sanding, sawing as well as thermoforming for shape creation. The material is available in different weights for both the UD fabric and Balanced fabric. Flax is naturally taupe in color and could be dyed prior to impregnation with resin but this affects the absorption of resin; an alternative is to color or coat the resin after the composite is formed. Mechanical tests were conducted with 12 layers of prepreg composite material, resulting in a flexural modulus of 22 GPa (3190 ksi), with elongation of 2.4%, and tensile strength of 330 MPa (48 ksi). Applications include sporting goods (rackets, bicycle frames, skis, boards), transportation (aerospace, automotive, boat manufacturing, railway), wind energy, interiors and furniture.