Compaction, Permeability and Flow Simulation for Liquid Composite Moulding of Natural Fibre Composites

Abstract

With the growing interest in developing high-performance natural fibre composites (NFRPs) for (semi-)-structural applications, researchers are increasingly considering liquid composite moulding (LCM) processes and investigating key manufacturing-related issues. Here, we critically review the literature on LCM of NFRPs. Consequently, we identify key findings concerning the reinforcement-related factors (namely, compaction and permeability) that influence, if not govern, the mould-filling stage during LCM of NFRPs. In particular, the differences in structure (physical and chemical) of natural and synthetic fibres, their semi-products (i.e. yarns and rovings) and their textiles are shown to have a perceptible effect on their processing via LCM.