Mechanical properties of natural fibre-reinforced composites

Natural fibres were initially used in composite materials to predominately improve bulk and reduce cost rather than improving mechanical properties. But the environmental problems associated with the production and use of synthetic fibres have changed the scenario. In the previous decade, natural fibres have been extensively used as reinforcement materials for both synthetic and bio-degradable matrices. Natural fibre reinforcements have mostly improved flexural and impact properties, but tensile strength improvement has been marginal and has been an area of investigation. Many attempts have been made towards improving mechanical properties, with efforts directed at improving the interface, newer methods of production of composites, new modelling techniques etc. In this detailed review, an attempt is made to critically analyse the various research efforts directed towards improving the mechanical properties of natural fibre reinforced composites.