Study of the tensile properties of stinging nettle fibres ( Urtica dioica)

Abstract

Developing new natural fibre composites is the focus of many studies today. Indeed, they are made out of renewable resources and, therefore, have a lower environmental impact in comparison to mineral fibre composites. The mechanical performances of stinging nettle fibres are measured and compared to flax and other lignocellulosic fibres. The stress/strain curve of stinging nettle fibres ( Urtica dioica) shows they have a linear behaviour. The average tensile properties are a Young's modulus equal to 87 GPa, a tensile strength equal to 1594 MPa, and a strain at failure equal to 2.11%.