Effect of Process Engineering on the Performance of Hybrid Fiber Composites

Abstract

The exploration of scientists around the globe for new innovative materials has resulted in the polymer composite materials that have found their applications in the sectors of automotive, aerospace, marine, defense, recreational, and sports industries. The rising environmental concerns have made these composite materials to be manufactured using sustainable bio-based materials extracted from various sources of plants. These bio-based materials are being reinforced with different thermoset or thermoplastic polymers to form natural fiber-based polymer composites that provide lightweight, good durability, and strength. Hybridizing natural fibers with other cellulosic fibers or synthetic fibers have been investigated by various researchers and have improved the composite material system in terms of mechanical, thermal, and dynamic properties. This chapter provides an insight into different natural and synthetic fibers, polymers and their types, hybrid polymer composites, and important fiber extraction methods and also discusses the chemical treatments used for natural fiber surface modification. The different processing methods employed in the fabrication of hybrid polymer composites and their applications are also conferred in this chapter.