Polypropylene biocomposites reinforced with softwood, abaca, jute, and kenaf fibers

The presented research study compares different types of common natural fibers used as a reinforcement in plastic composite industry. It contains characterization of each fiber type, its preparation method, and its chemical and physical properties. It follows from a description of the polypropylene biocomposite manufacturing process and physical properties of the obtained biocomposite materials. The biocomposites were manufactured in the same way and have the same matrix-to-fibre content (60/40 wt%). Therefore, the particular physical and chemical properties of the fibers used as a reinforcement and their influence onto mechanical properties of their biocomposites can be evaluated. This approach provides practical tools of how to tailor the properties of PP biocomposites by simply choosing an adequate fiber type as a matrix reinforcement. Furthermore, the information regarding: cultivation, price, and availability are compared to give a holistic view for these most common natural fibers for technical applications in plastic industry. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.