5 - The use of kenaf fibers as reinforcements in composites

Abstract

Kenaf fiber (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) is a type of natural fiber offering many advantages and high potential as reinforcement in composite materials, especially polymer composites. Conventionally, synthetic fibers such as carbon, glass and aramid are commonly used in the production of polymer composites, but kenaf fibers have comparable specific properties and relatively low processing costs favoring their substitution for conventional synthetic fibers. Kenaf fibers may be modified either physically or chemically and used for either thermoset or thermoplastic polymer systems. Fields of use for kenaf fiber-reinforced composites include construction, automotive, corrosion resistance, electrical, marine and transportation.