Chapter 11 - A comprehensive review of natural fiber reinforced polymer biocomposites and their applications

Abstract

Eco-friendly materials are needed in developing countries; therefore researchers are currently focused on material selection and developing a new material that will increase the environmental value of products. Numerous plant fibers have been reported as adding significant properties to the product materials, such as fast-growing and lightweight, low-cost, better mechanical properties, and requiring low production energy consumption, which can be used in structural and critical applications. Polypropylene (PP) is one of the most commonly used polymers in various applications. Alternative materials to the current synthetic fillers used in PP composites need to be identified to promote greener and safer materials in these industries. The introduction of natural fillers in PP composites was seen as one of the brightest solutions toward more environmentally friendly materials. However, the inclusion of individual natural fiber in PP composites does not significantly improve the strength of the composites. The use of coupling agents to modify the PP composites can enhance the fiber–matrix interfacial bonding, thus enhancing the strength of the natural fiber/PP composites. In addition, surface modification applied to the natural fiber using different types of treatments helps improve the strength of the composites. This review discusses several factors that affect the mechanical properties of natural fiber/PP composites, such as the effect of coupling agents, chemical treatments, and different percentages of fiber loading, as a reference for future studies in respective areas.