Mechanical properties of natural cellulose fibers reinforced polymer composites – 2015–2020: A review

Abstract

In the past few decades, synthetic polymers are being reinforced with various filler materials (fibers and particles) to improve and obtain desired properties for particular applications. These materials have been used in the areas of automotive, aerospace, structural and construction, householding, and sports. The plant-based natural cellulose fibers have recently gained increasing attention among researchers as a potential reinforcing agent owing to their high specific properties, renewability, availability, and biodegradable nature. When natural cellulose fibers derived from the plants and vegetables are used as reinforcing agents, they have enhanced the physical, thermal, mechanical, biodegradation, and electrical properties of composites. Natural cellulose fibers are hydrophilic in the environment, which reduces the compatibility with the polymer matrices. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate and understand the mechanical properties of natural fiber reinforced polymer composites for the manufacturing of polymer composites with improved properties. In the present paper, recently (2015–2020) developed the natural cellulose fiber/polymer matrix composites were reviewed according to the variations of mechanical properties.