Seminar / Workshop
Automated Instrument for Testing Natural Fibers Physical Properties
About this Topic
Fiber quality characterizations are needed to enable processors to compete in niche and higher-value markets, particularly where natural fibers like flax compete with established materials like glass, cotton, and synthetic fibers. For natural fibers to be competitive, they must have consistent quality and measurable properties. To achieve this, an automated instrument was developed to test the physical properties of flax and hemp fibers, commonly used in composite applications. This instrument measures fiber diameters according to ASTM Standards efficiently and automatically, minimizing human errors and reducing preparation time compared to traditional manual methods. It processes fiber batches by combing them to remove shives and minimize overlapping before scanning for measurement analysis.
Speaker
Dr. Hayder Salem
Associate Professor – Mechanical Engineering Department, Australian University
Dr. Hayder Salem is an Associate Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at the Australian University, with more than 20 years of experience in academic teaching and research in experimental Fluid Mechanics and Mechatronics Engineering.
