Durability of basalt/hemp hybrid thermoplastic composites
The Achilles heel of thermoplastic natural fibre composites is their limited durability. The
environmental degradation of the mechanical properties of hemp and hemp/basalt hybridreinforced
high-density polyethylene (HDPE) composites has been investigated with a special focus
on the effects of water ageing and accelerated ageing, including hygrothermal and UV radiation.
Modification of the matrix was carried out using a maleic anhydride high-density polyethylene
copolymer (MAPE) as a compatibilizer. Hybridization of hemp fibres with basalt fibres and the