Green composites for structural and non-structural applications: A review

Abstract

With regards to global consciousness on the environmental issues, the use of green composite materials over synthetic composites is being incorporated in all the fields and are considered to have greater utility and regarded as the advanced fourth generation engineered composite materials. The synthetic composites are by-products of petrochemicals and other non-biodegradable sources. They cause environmental disruption which results in the depletion of natural resources. The matrix, fibre contents, fillers, fibres treatment and fabrication procedure are the parameters which determine the mechanical properties of composite materials. The ideal procedure to contrive green composites is to utilize the renewable and eco-friendly flora based ‘lingo cellulosic’ fibres with bio based polymeric matrix. The comprehensive assessment of strength and characterization of enhanced composites are being performed earlier to the contemplation of structural and non-structural applications. The substitution of green composites over synthetic composites is increasing due to their benefits such as cheaper costs, bio-degradability and their availability in abundance. Green composites have become the emerging innovative products and potential replacements in the semi structural and structural applications like aircrafts, automobile industry, sporting goods, several electronic appliances. The green composites are acquiring attention due to their characteristics like composability, eco-friendly and overall degradable nature of final products. The quality of life can be improved by the development of bio-materials (green composites) which imparts a good effect on the economy of the world by the innovation of energy conserving products. This review gives a shallow dive into a few of the commercially used natural fibres, resins, their mechanical properties and some methods used for strengthening of fibres. It is designed to give an overview on recent global research studies and analysis provided on sustainable, eco-friendly, bio degradable green composites projecting a spotlight on bio polymers, natural fibres, processing of composites and their various structural applications.