Recent Progress on Natural Lignocellulosic Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites: A Review

There is a remarkable increase in natural fiber-reinforced composites research over the last three decades due to their abundance, less density, biodegradability, renewable sources, and low cost. The fabrication of natural fiber composites require less energy when compared with synthetic fiber composites. Various natural fibers are available globally and have been used as reinforcements in polymer composites. These fibers provide comparable properties and can be considered as a substitute for synthetic fiber composites. The objective of this review is to analyze the various types of natural fibers used in composite fabrication along with their physical, chemical, mechanical, thermal, and tribological properties. Other important aspects such as fiber extraction, chemical treatments, manufacturing methods, hybridization, interfacial adhesion, and applications for different natural fiber composites are also discussed. The review also establishes the scope of natural fiber composites for future needs in various applications by understanding their merits and demerits.

Automated summary

In the past three decades, there has been a significant increase in research on natural fiber-reinforced composites due to their abundance, low density, biodegradability, renewability, and cost-effectiveness. These composites require less energy to fabricate compared to synthetic fiber composites and offer comparable properties, making them a potential substitute. The review analyzes the types of natural fibers used in composite fabrication and discusses their physical, chemical, mechanical, thermal, and tribological properties, as well as important aspects such as fiber extraction, chemical treatments, manufacturing methods, hybridization, interfacial adhesion, and various applications. The findings establish the potential of natural fiber composites for future needs in different applications by understanding their strengths and weaknesses.