Natural fiber reinforced polyester composites: A literature review

Many composite products are made of thermosetting polymers reinforced with synthetic fibers. Despite the high mechanical properties associated with these fibers they are heavy and expensive compared with natural fibers. The use of natural plant fibres, combinations of natural and synthetic fibers, and wood furnish as reinforcement in polyester matrix for making low cost engineering materials has generated much interest recently. Natural fibers with good specific stiffness and strength, low density, low embodied energy, and good biodegradability have an advantage over synthetic fibers. Despite these benefits they have poor compatibility with the matrix due to their hydrophilic nature. This paper reviews the literature on the effects of chemical treatments on fiber-matrix interfacial adhesion and the wettability of natural fibers by polyester. The efficiency of incorporating glass fiber into the natural fiber for the purpose of reducing water uptake and increasing the stiffness of composite is also discussed.