Composite Manufacturing Research Articles

Thermophysical Characterization of Materials for Energy-Efficient Double Diaphragm Preforming

The Double Diaphragm Preforming (DDPF) process uses vacuum pressure and heat to pre-shape dry carbon fabric reinforcements between flexible diaphragms in liquid composite molding (LCM). Accurate modeling of heat transfer within DDPF requires knowledge of the thermophysical properties of the constituent materials under processing conditions. This study investigates the thermal conductivity of silicone diaphragms and carbon fabrics with embedded thermoplastic binder webs, utilizing transient plane source (TPS) and modified transient plane source (MTPS) methods, respectively. Additionally, the specific heat of silicone, carbon fibers (both chopped and powdered), and binder were measured using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Mixed samples comprising chopped fibers with 1.8 wt% binder and powdered fibers with 3.6 wt% binder was also analyzed with DSC. This study also examined the influence of reheating cycles on the specific heat of carbon fiber—3.6 wt% binder samples—and the effect of compaction and vacuum on the thermal conductivity of carbon fabrics with an embedded binder. While silicone exhibited linear-specific heat behavior, the thermoplastic binder showed non-linearity due to phase change. The combined carbon fiber-binder samples demonstrated slight non-linear specific heat variations depending on reheating cycles. The thermal conductivity of the fabric preforms decreased with the addition of thermoplastic binder and under vacuum-compaction conditions. The established temperature-dependent specific heat relationships and thermal conductivity provide valuable data for optimizing DDPF preforming parameters and enhancing energy efficiency in composite manufacturing.

A Mechanism-Based Reaction-Diffusion Model for Accelerated Discovery of Thermoset Resins Frontally Polymerized by Olefin Metathesis.

Frontal ring-opening metathesis polymerization (FROMP) involves a self-perpetuating exothermic reaction, which enables the rapid and energy-efficient manufacturing of thermoset polymers and composites. Current state-of-the-art reaction-diffusion FROMP models rely on a phenomenological description of the olefin metathesis kinetics, limiting their ability to model the governing thermo-chemical FROMP processes. Furthermore, the existing models are unable to predict the variations in FROMP kinetics with changes in the resin composition and as a result are of limited utility toward accelerated discovery of new resin formulations. In this work, we formulate a chemically meaningful model grounded in the established mechanism of ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP). Our study aims to validate the hypothesis that the ROMP mechanism, applicable to monomer-initiator solutions below 100 °C, remains valid under the nonideal conditions encountered in FROMP, including ambient to >200 °C temperatures, sharp temperature gradients, and neat monomer environments. Through extensive simulations, we demonstrate that our mechanism-based model accurately predicts the FROMP behavior across various resin compositions, including polymerization front velocities and thermal characteristics (e.g., Tmax). Additionally, we introduce a semi-inverse workflow that predicts FROMP behavior from a single experimental data point. Notably, the physiochemical parameters utilized in our model can be obtained through DFT calculations and minimal experiments, highlighting the model's potential for rapid screening of new FROMP chemistries in pursuit of thermoset polymers with superior thermo-chemo-mechanical properties.

A feasibility study of oil palm empty fruit bunch pulp as a substitution for radiata pine pulp for autoclave fibre cement composite production

The main objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of using unbleached pulp from oil palm empty fruit bunches, produced via the Ethanolamine pulping process, to replace Radiata Pine pulp in autoclave fibre cement composite (AFCC) manufacturing. The Ethanolamine pulping process was chosen for its silica retention capability on empty fruit bunch surfaces. The research involves three key phases: an initial characterization of RPP and EFBP properties, including kappa numbers and pulp aspect ratios; subsequent AFCC production with varying RPP content levels (0%–13%) and different cement-to-silica (C/S) ratios (0.2–1.0); and the introduction of EFBP as a partial or complete substitute for RPP at a fixed C/S ratio. Results reveal RPP excels in fibre quality attributes like length, coarseness, fineness, width, and wet/dry zero span, while EFBP offers advantages in fibre count and macro fibrillation index. X-ray diffraction confirms silica presence on EFBP. The highest modulus of rupture (MOR), at 15.5 MPa, is achieved with 9% RPP and a C/S ratio of 1.0. Subsequent analysis, with 1% EFBP interval substitutions to total 13% pulp content, yields the highest MOR values under dry (16.7 MPa) and wet (9.9 MPa) conditions using recipes with 6% RPP and 3% EFBP. XRD confirms the presence of silica on EFBP, forming a crystalline flake layer post-autoclaving. Thus, EFBP proves suitable as a partial AFCC substitute.

Smart Industrial Internet of Things Framework for Composites Manufacturing.

Composite materials are increasingly important in making high-performance products. However, contemporary composites manufacturing processes still encounter significant challenges that range from inherent material stochasticity to manufacturing process variabilities. This paper proposes a novel smart Industrial Internet of Things framework, which is also referred to as an Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) framework for composites manufacturing. This framework improves production performance through real-time process monitoring and AI-based forecasting. It comprises three main components: (i) an array of temperature, heat flux, dielectric, and flow sensors for data acquisition from production machines and products being made, (ii) an IoT-based platform for instantaneous sensor data integration and visualisation, and (iii) an AI-based model for production process forecasting. Via these components, the framework performs real-time production process monitoring, visualisation, and prediction of future process states. This paper also presents a proof-of-concept implementation of the framework and a real-world composites manufacturing case study that showcases its benefits.

Polyester and Hymenaea Courbaril Residue for Sustainable Composite Manufacturing

Objective: To evaluate the mechanical behavior of polymer composites reinforced by wood residue known as Játobá (Hymenaea Courbaril), in powder form. It aims to reduce impacts to the environment through the use of waste. Theoretical Framework: Composites are generated from the union of materials, aiming to obtain specific properties arising from their components. Usually these are divided into two phases, matrix. The possibility of using materials less harmful to the environment in composite has gained prominence in research in the area. Method: To obtain the properties of the composites, standardized specimens were manufactured according to ASTM D638. The matrix selected was terephthalic polyester resin and the reinforcement was Játobá wood residue, in the form of powder. The results were obtained by tensile strength tests. Results and Discussion: The average value of tensile strength obtained was 11.76 (±1.70) MPa. The comparison of the results of this study with other literature revealed the superiority of the tensile strength of the composite of the present work in relation to others with different reinforcements of wood residues. Research Implications: The use of wood waste in composites is beneficial for reducing the irregular disposal of matter in the environment. Also, it aims to generate added value to a useless material. Originality/Value: The use of natural and renewable materials as reinforcement in composites is of great relevance, aiming to reduce the use of synthetic raw material. In addition, there is the manufacture of composites of low cost and weight and feasibility of manufacture.

From virtual to actual assisted tape placement − application of the Frenet frame to robotic steering trajectories

A novel computational tool is presented that integrates the design and manufacturing of variable-angle tow composites for automated tape placement, facilitating the creation of tow-steered trajectories for cut-outs. Steering movements of the robot are planned and executed within a MATLAB virtual environment via short paths and linear commands. Leveraging piecewise-continuous clothoid splines and the Frenet frame, the tool furnishes crucial details on trajectory vectors, steering angles, and curvatures. Via four integrated modules, the user can define input parameters such as the robot’s actuators and structural geometry, allowing for the subsequent visualisation of the steered trajectories as well as the generation of the manufacturing code. Finally, to assess the potential and limitations of this methodology, the file containing all details is integrated into the Kuka KR L240-2 robot model to continuously steer a carbon fibre/PEEK tape around an elliptical cut-out in a composite panel using laser-assisted tape placement, representative of an access hole in an aircraft wing.

Manufacturing and cold spraying of hybrid composites — A path for metallizing thermoset matrix composites

This study aims to realize and metallize the hybrid thermoset-thermoplastic fiber reinforced composites for aerospace applications. Two variations in the manufacturing route including cocuring and hybrid interlayer were adopted for realizing the RTM6-PEI-CF composite. Low pressure cold spray metallization technique is applied by varying the processing parameters stand-off distance and traverse speed. Microstructural analysis and mechanical tests (roughness check, nanoindentation tests) were performed on sprayed composites. Overall, manufacturing routes affected the inherent structure of the composite and subsequent coating quality. Mechanical interlocking induced close contact of PEI-aluminum (Al) particles characterized into uniform coating with surface morphology variation shown in cocured composites. Coating adhesion strength increment up to 18 MPa was noted by using the PEI-carbon fiber (CF) semi-preg in manufacturing. The tomography scan highlighted the structural integrity of the manufactured and coated composites, revealing coating-thermoplastic contact, interphase, and porosity in the inter-tow fiber region. An increase in the traverse speed to 2 mm/s reduced the electrical conductivity and adhesion strength of the coating with the hybrid composite. Within the limits of this investigation, opting for lower stand-off distance and traverse speed (here, 10 mm and 1 mm/s) reflected in improved adhesion and approximately 1.5 mm coating thickness.

Sintesis dan Karakterisasi Pupuk Multinutrien Calcium-Ammonium-Phosphate (CAP) Berbahan Cangkang Kupang Merah

Fertilisers and composites are two types of materials that can be used to improve soil fertility. However, these two materials have some differences. One of them is in the manufacturing process, fertilisers can be made in various ways, while the composite manufacturing process can only be done by biological processes. The objectives of this paper are (1) To determine the effect of acidity degree (pH) on the formation of Calcium-Ammonium-Phosphate particles, (2) To determine the optimisation of Calcium Ammonium Phosphate from red mussel shells by precipitation method, and (3) To determine the characteristics of Calcium-Ammonium-Phosphate produced using SEM-EDX and XRF analysis. The type of research used uses experimental research. The results and conclusions drawn are (1) The solubility of CaHPO4 decreases with increasing pH so that the weight of the resulting product increases in the precipitation method, (2) The best condition for making calcium ammonium phosphate fertiliser with red shell material is in the condition of red shell weight of 30 grams and pH 7, (3) The chemical composition contained in the CAP product with the condition of 20 grams of shell weight at pH 5 is Ca content of 74.76%, and phosphorus content of 23.5%, (4) The particle size at pH 3 weight of 20 grams ranges from 830 nm - 1970 nm and the particle size at pH 3 weight of 30 grams ranges from 1980 nm - 5220 nm. Therefore the fertiliser product does not include nano particles, (5) The CAP fertiliser product meets the SNI standards for NPK fertiliser and dolomite fertiliser.

Advancements and Perspectives in Additive Manufacturing of Tungsten Alloys and Composites: Challenges and Solutions

This review explores additive manufacturing (AM) for refractory tungsten (W) and its alloys, highlighting the primary challenges and determining factors in the AM of pure W, W alloys and composites. The challenges mainly arise from W’s high melting point, low laser absorptivity, high thermal conductivity, high melt viscosity, high oxygen affinity, high ductile-to-brittle transition temperature, and inherent embrittlement, which lead to defects and anomalies in AM-produced parts. This review focuses on both processes and alloying strategies to address the issues related to densification, micro-cracking, and the resultant properties in W-based components. Cracking in additively manufactured W remains a persistent issue due to thermal stress, embrittlement, and oxide formation. Powder characteristics, process parameters, and thermal management strategies are crucial for W densification. Throughout the review, existing knowledge and insights are organized into comprehensive tables, serving as valuable resources for researchers delving deeper into this topic. Future research in W-AM should focus on understanding the interaction between AM process parameters and microstructural and material design. Advances in atomic-level understanding, thermodynamic modeling, and data analytics have the potential to significantly enhance the precision, sustainability, and applicability of W-AM.

Polyester and Hymenaea Courbaril Residue for Sustainable Composite Manufacturing

Objective: To evaluate the mechanical behavior of polymer composites reinforced by wood residue known as Játobá (Hymenaea Courbaril), in powder form. It aims to reduce impacts to the environment through the use of waste. Theoretical Framework: Composites are generated from the union of materials, aiming to obtain specific properties arising from their components. Usually these are divided into two phases, matrix. The possibility of using materials less harmful to the environment in composite has gained prominence in research in the area. Method: To obtain the properties of the composites, standardized specimens were manufactured according to ASTM D638. The matrix selected was terephthalic polyester resin and the reinforcement was Játobá wood residue, in the form of powder. The results were obtained by tensile strength tests. Results and Discussion: The average value of tensile strength obtained was 11.76 (±1.70) MPa. The comparison of the results of this study with other literature revealed the superiority of the tensile strength of the composite of the present work in relation to others with different reinforcements of wood residues. Research Implications: The use of wood waste in composites is beneficial for reducing the irregular disposal of matter in the environment. Also, it aims to generate added value to a useless material. Originality/Value: The use of natural and renewable materials as reinforcement in composites is of great relevance, aiming to reduce the use of synthetic raw material. In addition, there is the manufacture of composites of low cost and weight and feasibility of manufacture.

Comparison of the mechanical characteristics of biocomposites of unsaturated polyester resin with cellulose extracted from corn silk and treated corn silk

The purpose of this study is to extract cellulose from corn silk (CS) fiber and use it as a reinforcing filler in unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) matrix. In this study, the cellulose is characterized using a Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), and the resulting UPR/cellulose biocomposite's mechanical properties (such as flexural and impact testing) are assessed. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) provided strong support for mechanical rather than a chemical bond between fiber and UPR. Additionally, the sodium hydroxide treated CS in UPR biocomposite and comparing it with neat UPR. The agricultural byproduct rich in cellulose corn silk is a natural polymer known for its structural strength and UPR has garnered attention as a biopolymer with notable flexibility, making it an appealing choice for plastic product manufacturing. However, the drawback of UPR lies in its inherent deficiency in both stiffness and strength. According to the FTIR data, extracted cellulose (CS) had fewer ketone (C = O) and hydroxyl (-OH) groups than virgin cellulose. It was shown that throughout the extraction process, hemicellulose and lignin were more eliminated, producing a more pure form of cellulose. When filled in UPR, cellulose and treated CS both caused the impact strength of UPR biocomposites to drop. For both treated CS and cellulose, it was shown that the flexural modulus and flexural strength increased as the filler amount increased to a definite percentage (12%) after which it decreased. The result revealed the tensile strength and tensile modulus achieved by 0% of fiber with 48 N/mm2 and 51 N/mm2 and highest at 12% of fiber with 54.3 N/mm2 and 68.8 N/mm2 for CS + UPR. And 53.4 N/mm2 and 69.6 N/mm2 for cellulose + UPR composite,, respectively. In comparison, the flexural characteristics of UPR/cellulose were marginally inferior to those of UPR/treated CS. However, the impact resistance showed a significant improvement, particularly with a cellulose loading of 12%. Hence, cellulose presents a greater potential for composite manufacturing due to its ability to maintain the ductile properties of UPR compared to treated CS. Moreover, processed CS and cellulose both can be used as reinforcing agents in polymers to increase their strength and stiffness.

Manufacturing of copper-chromium composite using electrochemical additive manufacturing method: a screening study

Manufacturing of copper-chromium composite using electrochemical additive manufacturing method: a screening study

Toward the Manufacturing of a Non-Toxic High-Performance Biobased Epoxy-Hemp Fibre Composite.

This study describes the production of a new biobased epoxy thermoset and its use with long hemp fibres to produce high-performance composites that are totally biobased. The synthesis of BioIgenox, an epoxy resin derived from a lignin biorefinery, and its curing process have been optimised to decrease their environmental impact. The main objective of this study is to characterise the rheology and kinetics of the epoxy system with a view to optimising the composite manufacturing process. Thus, the epoxy resin/hardener system was chosen considering the constraints imposed by the implementation of composites reinforced with plant fibres. The viscosity of the chosen mixture shows the compatibility of the formulation with the traditional implementation processes of the composites. In addition, unlike BPA-a precursor of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) epoxy resin-BioIgenox and its precursor do not have endocrine disrupting activities. The neat polymer and its unidirectional hemp fibre composite are characterised using three-point bending tests. Results measured for the fully biobased epoxy polymer show a bending modulus, a bending strength, a maximum strain at failure and a Tg of, respectively, 3.1 GPa, 55 MPa, 1.82% and 120 °C. These values are slightly weaker than those of the DGEBA-based epoxy material. It was also observed that the incorporation of fibres into the fully biobased epoxy system induces a decrease in the damping peak and a shift towards higher temperatures. These results point out the effective stress transfers between the hemp fibres and the fully biobased epoxy system. The high mechanical properties and softening temperature measured in this work with a fully biobased epoxy system make this type of composite a very promising sustainable material for transport and lightweight engineering applications.

Exploring the influence of native minerals in coal gangue on CG/PE composite manufacturing and performance: Examining SiO2's role in interfacial compatibility

AbstractThis study delves into the influence of inherent minerals within coal gangue (CG) on the preparation and performance of coal gangue /polyethylene (CG/PE) composites, focusing on the role of SiO2 in interfacial compatibility. A systematic examination unveils the consequences of varying SiO2 content on physical, mechanical, thermal, and microstructural attributes of the composites. SiO2 incorporation significantly improves physical properties, boosting density and hardness but impacting tensile strength negatively. It enhances bending strength and modulus while diminishing tensile strength. Judicious SiO2 addition enhances thermal stability, but excess SiO2 may compromise thermal decomposition. Microstructural analysis, including SEM and FTIR, elucidates SiO2‐PE interactions, primarily through physical entanglement. SiO2 introduction promotes more ordered PE molecular chain arrangements, elevating composite crystallinity. In summary, this study provides in‐depth insights into SiO2's mechanistic impact on CG/PE composite properties, laying a robust foundation for designing environmentally friendly composites. These findings hold promise for advancing sustainable materials science and engineering. Future research may explore SiO2 optimization for specific applications and synergistic effects with other fillers in composites.Highlights SiO2 greatly improves the properties of CG/PE composites with detailed exploration. Reveals the specific SiO2‐PE interaction mechanism for a better comprehension. Performs structural analysis via XRD with valuable findings presented. Promotes pioneering advancements in eco‐friendly materials with broad significance.

Multi‐objective optimization of hybrid polypropylene composites for enhanced mechanical, thermal, and flame‐retardant properties

AbstractOptimizing composite materials is crucial for engineering advancements because it allows for the creation of materials tailored to specific functional requirements, thereby enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability. This study examines both the combined and individual effects of long flax fiber (LFF) bundles, short basalt fibers (BF), and rice husk powder (RHP) on the properties of polypropylene (PP) hybrid composites. LFF primarily provides mechanical strength, BF enhances mechanical, thermal, and flame‐retardant properties by filling gaps, and RHP reinforces and improves the overall composite. Contrary to previous studies that relied on random combinations, this research employs a systematic Box–Behnken design (BBD) for three variables: LFF plies, BF, and RHP by weight percentage. This approach facilitated the development of a new second‐order regression equation via response surface methodology (RSM), clarifying the contribution of each component, with R2 values exceeding 0.85, indicating high predictability. Optimization, conducted using a non‐dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA‐II), demonstrated that the optimal composites significantly outperformed the non‐optimized ones in mechanical strength, thermal stability, and flame retardancy. Compared to the average values before optimization, improvements post‐optimization included increases of 49.86% in tensile strength (TS), 38.82% in TS modulus, 73.93% in char yield (YC), and 29.81% in peak heat release rate (pHRR). Specifically, the fire performance index improved by 237.5% and the fire growth index by 101.33%, compared to pure PP, highlighting significant advancements in fire safety. This study shows that mathematical equations can predict composite properties, helping to select balanced compositions without sacrificing flammability.Highlights Multi‐filler approach technique used for manufacturing of PP composites. LFF, BF & RHP optimize mechanics & flammability. Box–Behnken design predicts optimal composition for superior properties. NSGA‐II optimization improves tensile, thermal & flame retardant properties.

Quantitative Study on the Electrothermal Properties of Carbon Nanotube Film and its Out-of-Autoclave-Manufactured Glass Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy-Resin Composites

Abstract: Carbon nanotube films are utilized in various fields, particularly electric heating, owing to their exceptional thermal and electrical properties. However, quantitative research on the electrothermal characteristics of carbon nanotube film is insufficient, and glass fiberreinforced epoxy-resin composites prepared through the electrothermal method of carbon nanotube films (i.e., the out-of-autoclave technique) have not yet been reported. Herein, according to a mathematical model and experimental demonstration, a quantitative relationship, T = T0 + (t/L2)·(V2σ)·(1/αw), was proposed to explain the electrothermal properties of carbon nanotube films. Glass fiber-reinforced composites with an outstanding tensile strength of 535.6 MPa and an elongation-at-break of 1.6% were prepared through the out-of-autoclave technique using the designed carbon nanotube film. The composites outperformed previous mechanical composites in terms of energy consumption. Experimental investigations and molecular simulations revealed the mechanical mechanisms of the composites. These findings quantitatively revealed the electrothermal properties of carbon nanotube films, advancing their application in the out-ofautoclave manufacturing of high-performance resin-matrix composites.

Critical review of metal-ceramic composites fabricated through additive manufacturing for extreme condition applications

Metal-Ceramic composites are a special class of materials, including elements as matrix and reinforcements. These composites, especially metal matrix composites, are of great significance in several high-end engineering applications due to their tunable conductivity, strength, and toughness. This review paper summarizes studies carried out to fabricate metal-ceramic composites by additive manufacturing. Various metal matrix composites such as titanium matrix composites, cobalt matrix composites, iron matrix composites, nickel matrix composites, and aluminum matrix composites are elaborated in detail. The paper provides an in-depth analysis of applications, trends, opportunities, and outlook for additive manufacturing of Metal-Ceramic composites.

Path planning and inspection of complex-shaped 3D-printed composites based on robotic pulse-echo laser ultrasonic testing

With the recent advancement in manufacturing, there has been an increasing demand for composite workpieces in the aviation industry. The emergence of composite 3D printing technology that enables the simplification and automation of composite manufacturing processes presents the possibility of replacing the manufacturing process of secondary structures in an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). To evaluate the applicability of the technology, a solution for automated non-destructive testing (NDT) that can be applied after the 3D printing process is needed. This study proposes an advanced approach to utilizing laser ultrasonic testing (LUT) for complex-shaped structures fabricated through continuous fiber 3D printing. To ensure accurate defect detection and localization, which are crucial factors in NDT, we propose a method that utilizes a six-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) robot arm to control the position of the inspection target. By calculating the scan points and path through coordinate transformation and spatial rotation using a quaternion, all surfaces of the targets were inspected. This maintains a constant stand-off distance (SOD) while the sensing laser was vertically incident on the target surface, resulting in a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the ultrasonic signals. Inspection results have demonstrated the proposed technique to be suitable for detecting defects in complex-shaped 3D-printed structures.

Modeling of mechanical behavior of Agave sisalana fiber's yarn using the design of experiments method

The aim of this study is to propose a model for predicting the mechanical properties of natural sisal yarn based on mechanical strength of used fibers, unit twist of yarn and its density. To achieve this, a complete factorial design modelling method was used, based on a design of experiments approach, which is recommended today because of the ease it offers in taking into account the most complex phenomena. It was developed on the basis of laboratory tests. The model obtained predicts mechanical strength and elasticity modulus of sisal yarn, based on control parameters such as fiber strength, unit twist and yarn mass. This model is currently one of the most accurate tools for predicting and optimising the mechanical properties of sisal yarns. The iso-surface curves represented by this model, can be used to obtain the strength and elasticity modulus of sisal yarn during manufacture, by varying the optimum control parameters. This model is an original tool that can be recommended to the spinning and sisal fiber composite manufacturing industries and others, as it saves time and materials and ensures precision in the manufacture of yarns according to the field of application, thereby contributing to safety in use.

Enhancing eco-efficiency in hemp-based construction boards: environmental and economic strategies for sustainability

ABSTRACT Hemp-based construction materials have increasingly captured attention in recent years as viable alternatives to carbon-intensive materials. A benefit of using hemp (Cannabis sativa L) in construction is its ability to sequester carbon dioxide during plant growth, thereby providing the potential to create carbon-negative materials. However, hemp production can contribute to other environmental impacts such as acidification and eutrophication. Additionally, hemp-based materials usually involve higher costs compared to traditional materials. This study presented an application of an eco-efficiency framework to explore options for improving the environmental and economic performance of non-load-bearing hemp-based construction boards at the production stage in Australia. The study integrated environmental life cycle assessment, multi-criteria analysis, environmental mitigation strategies, life cycle costing and eco-efficiency portfolio analysis in order to identify eco-efficiency improvement opportunities for non-structural hemp-based construction boards and to compare them with conventional alternatives. The analysis showed that the use of solar electricity during the post-farm stage of hemp-based board production can reduce their environmental impact by 26 per cent and production costs by 0.4 per cent. The proposed framework can assist hemp growers and hemp-based composite manufacturers in Australia in developing cost-effective environmental mitigation strategies to assist sustainability in the construction sector.