Dynamic micromechanical measurement of the flexural modulus of micrometre-sized diameter single natural fibres using a vibrating microcantilever technique

Abstract The dynamic response of a structure is a manifestation of its inherent characteristics, including material density, mechanical modulus, thermo- and viscoelastic properties, and geometric properties. Together, these factors influence how the material behaves in dynamic scenarios, dictating its damping properties and behaviour under varying forces. In this study we present a novel approach to accurately determine the flexural (bending) modulus of microscopic diameter natural fibres (flax) using microcantilever vibration analysis. Traditionally, the characterisation of the mechanical properties of fibres has relied on macroscopic methods such as tensile testing, which often results in high scatter in measurement data; furthermore, tensile testing does not accurately represent microscale or dynamic conditions and can be complex in terms of sample preparation and loading. To address this, we have developed a microscale technique involving the fabrication of microcantilevers using flat polypropylene support chips, inspired by microelectromechanical systems approaches. Our method provides a refined method for accurately characterising the mechanical modulus of flax fibres, with reduced data dispersion compared to traditional macroscopic testing. Furthermore, by reducing the influence of inherent fibre defects and maintaining homogeneity along the length of the fibre, our micro-scale technique provides reliable modulus determination. This work opens avenues for improved understanding and application of natural and man-made fibres, such as glass and optical fibres, in a variety of fields.