FLAx-REinforced Aluminum (FLARE): A Bio-Based Fiber Metal Laminate Alternative Combining Impact Resistance and Vibration Damping

Fiber metal laminates (FMLs) have mainly been used in aerospace applications with synthetic fibers. To improve their environmental credentials and address issues regarding the end-of-life of these materials, a shift to FMLs based on natural fibers can be a promising course of action. However, regarding them as conventional FMLs overlook some of the unique benefits of natural fibers. Therefore, this study pioneers the examination of FLAx-REinforced aluminum (FLARE) for its combined impact resistance and vibration damping. Dynamic mechanical analysis and vibration beam tests demonstrate that the metallic layer predominantly influences the damping behavior of FLARE. The loss factor notably decreases with aluminum addition (by 80% compared to the flax composite), approximated via an inverse mixture rule. Low-velocity impact tests highlight the role of aluminum layers in energy absorption and the composite strength as a critical factor in impact resistance. FLARE exhibits 25% less specific energy absorption compared to its glass fiber counterpart. A quasi-static analytical model suggests the potential of FLARE for practical applications. With its balance of properties and considering its potential advantages at end-of-life, allowing recycling of aluminum, and its expected lower carbon footprint, FLARE renders potential beyond the aerospace sector, e.g., in other forms of transportation.