An Overview of the Additive Manufacturing of Bast Fiber-Reinforced Composites and Envisaging Advancements Using the Patent Landscape.

Abstract

Natural fiber composites attract attention owing to their environmentally friendly attributes. Many techniques, including fiber treatment, coatings, and fiber orientations, are used to improve the strength of natural fiber-reinforced composites. Still, the strength needs to be improved as expected. At present, some automation in manufacturing is also supported. Recently, additive manufacturing (AM) of natural fiber-reinforced composites has attracted many researchers around the globe. In this work, researchers' attention to various natural fibers that are 3D printed is articulated and consolidated, and the future scope of the additive manufacturing of natural fiber-reinforced composite is envisaged using the patent landscape. In addition, some of the advancements in additive manufacturing of natural fiber composites are also discussed with reference to the patents filed lately. This may be helpful for the researchers working on AM of natural fiber composites for taking their research into new orientations.