Improving Utilisation of Flax Natural Fibers

Introduction

As part of the NAFLAS project, Solico, in collaboration with EVE Reserve, Cureworks, Q Concept, and Delft Infrastructures, is exploring the next generation of sustainable materials. The focus is on flax fibers, leveraging an innovative production technique to improve and reduce carbon footprint while mantaining the full mechanical performance and design potential in structural applications.

We are seeking a motivated and technically inclined intern to conduct in-depth research and testing on flax fibers, aimed at understanding their mechanical behavior and environmental sensitivity. This work will contribute directly to the creation of a benchmarked mechanical properties database, tailored for use in structural design and engineering.

What You’ll Work On:

Material Characterization:

• Perform mechanical testing of flax fibers (tensile, compression, shear, etc.)
• Develop a mechanical benchmark database based on test results
• Analyse and report mechanical performance under various loading and environmental conditions
• Investigate the effects of creep, moisture, and temperature on flax fiber composites
• Simulate or test real-life application scenarios

Comparative Research:

• Benchmark the new flax materials against existing commercial flax materials
• Assess both mechanical and design performance aspects

Design & Standards:

• Evaluate the design integration potential of flax fibers
• Apply and interpret design implications using Eurocode 11 (EN 1990–1999 series relevant to natural materials and composite structures)

Company

Founded over 30 years ago, Solico Engineering is Benelux’s largest composite engineering company, and proudly supports market leading composites manufacturers across a broad spectrum of Maritime, Defence, Civil & Architecture and Industrial markets. Always independent, and focused on smart, fit for purpose design, we commit to add value to every project we engineer.

** A VOG is required