Biocomposites For Applications Research Articles

Nanocarbon-based sensors for the structural health monitoring of smart biocomposites.

Structural health monitoring (SHM) is a critical aspect of ensuring the safety and durability of smart biocomposite materials used as multifunctional materials. Smart biocomposites are composed of renewable or biodegradable materials and have emerged as eco-friendly alternatives of traditional non-biodegradable glass fiber-based composite materials. Although biocomposites exhibit fascinating properties and many desirable traits, real-time and early stage SHM is the most challenging issue to enable their long-term use. Smart biocomposites are integrated with sensors for in situ identification of the progress of damage and composite failure. The sensitivity of such smart biocomposites is a key functionality, which can be tuned by the introduction of an appropriate filler. In particular, nanocarbons hold promising potential to be incorporated in SHM applications of biocomposites. This review focused on the potential applications of nanocarbons in SHM of biocomposites. The aspects related to fabrication techniques and working mechanism of sensors are comprehensively discussed. Furthermore, their unique mechanical and electrical properties and sustainable nature ensure seamless integration into biocomposites, allowing for real-time monitoring without compromising the material's properties. These sensors offer multi-parameter sensing capabilities, such as strain, pressure, humidity, temperature, and chemical exposure, allowing a comprehensive assessment of biocomposite health. Additionally, their durability and longevity in harsh conditions, along with wireless connectivity options, provide cost-effective and sustainable SHM solutions. As research in this field advances, ongoing efforts seek to enhance the sensitivity and selectivity of these sensors, optimizing their performance for real-world applications. This review highlights the significant advances, ongoing efforts to enhance the sensitivity and selectivity, and performance optimization of nanocarbon-based sensors along with their working mechanism in the field of SHM for smart biocomposites. The key challenges and future research perspectives facing the conversion of nanocarbons to smart biocomposites are also displayed.

Multifunctional composite with hybrid carbon fiber and carbonaceous coconut particle reinforcement

The utilization of multifunctional composite materials presents significant advantages in terms of system efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and miniaturization, making them highly valuable for a wide range of industrial applications. One approach to harness the multifunctionality of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) is to integrate it with a secondary material to form a hybrid composite. In our previous research, we explored the use of carbonaceous material derived from coconut shells as a sustainable alternative to inorganic fillers, aiming to enhance the out-of-plane mechanical performance of CFRP. In this study, our focus is to investigate the influence of carbonized coconut shell particles on the non-structural properties of CFRP, specifically electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, thermal stability, and water absorption resistance. The carbonized material was prepared by thermal processing at 400 °C. Varying proportions of carbonized material, ranging from 1% to 5% by weight, were thoroughly mixed with epoxy resin to form the matrix used for impregnating woven carbon fabric with a volume fraction of 29%. Through measurements of scattering parameters, we found that the hybrid composites with particle loadings up to 3% exhibited EMI shielding effectiveness suitable for industrial applications. Also, incorporating low concentrations of carbonized particle to CFRP enhances the thermal stability of hybrid CFRP composites. However, the inclusion of carbonized particle to CFRP has a complex effect on the glass transition temperature. Even so, the hybrid composite with 2% particle loading exhibits the highest glass transition temperature and lowest damping factor among the tested variations. Furthermore, when subjected to a 7-day water immersion test, hybrid composites with 3% or less amount of carbonized particle showed the least water absorption. The favorable outcome can be attributed to good interfacial bonding at the matrix/fiber interface. Conversely, at higher particle concentrations, aggregation of particles and formation of interfacial and internal pores was observed, ultimately resulting in deteriorated measured properties. The improved non-structural functionalities observed in these biocomposites suggest the potential for a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to their inorganic-based counterparts. This advancement in multifunctional composites could pave the way for enhanced applications of biocomposites in various industries.

Selection and processing of natural fibers and nanocellulose for biocomposite applications: A brief review

In this study the recent developments in raw materials, manufacturing processes, and applications of natural fiber composites (NFCs) were reviewed. Natural fibers can represent a substitute for man-made fibers (including glass, aramid, and carbon) in a variety of biocomposite applications. Physical and chemical properties of the natural fibers are given and compared with the synthetic fibers. Advantages and disadvantages of NFCs in comparison with synthetic fibers such as glass and carbon fibers have been proposed. Criteria are described for the selection and processing of natural fibers for polymer composites used in different sectors such as automotive and building industries. The nanocellulose production methods, unique properties, and its recent industrial application in various sectors are given. This short review on NFCs considers their chemical, physical, and mechanical characteristics, as well as their various applications.

Extraction and characterization of novel natural cellulosic fiber from Echinops spinosissimus plant stem

Bio-based composites are outstanding materials to replace many synthetic fiber-based composites due to their biodegradability and sustainable environmental properties. This research aims to characterize and analysis a new cellulosic fibers extracted from Echinops spinosissimus plant stem, to study their integration in the field of various industries such as composites and textiles. Thus, adding and incorporating a new natural fiber to the list of fibers that enter into the production of Bio-based composites materials, and meet the needs of the market that knows a shortage of these materials. In addition, the extracted fibers from Echinops spinosissimus plant, which is abundant and have acceptable properties that can replace the synthetic fibers. The stem anatomy results showed a strong presence of fiber cells, fiber SEM micrographs showed that fiber surface become rough, these fibers have a density of 0.97 ± 0.01 g/cm3, and diameter 280.76 µm. FTIR and XRD showed that these fibers are cellulosic. Thermal analysis revealed that Echinops spinosissimus fiber have a thermal stability of 208°C. Tensile strength, Young modulus and strain at failure were found as 217.54 ± 54.16 MPa, 19.23 ± 0.76 GPa and 3.78 ± 0.36%, respectively. SEM showed that the studied fiber becomes more roughness in the outer surface following the chemical treatments, thus contributing to better adhesion with resin. This work confirmed that Echinops spinosissimus fibers are suitable materials for use in textile and biocomposite applications.

Tradycja i innowacyjność w ochronie środowiska przyrodniczego regionów górskich

Aim of the study: Pastoral management in Europe is an important element in protecting biodiversity and the landscape. Shepherding stimulates the development of the market of traditional and regional products, handicrafts and services. Pastoral farming in Europe is an important element of biodiversity and landscape protection. Shepherding stimulates the development of the market for traditional, regional products, handicrafts and services. For many years, wool was an important product obtained in mountain areas from local sheep breeds, now treated as a waste product. The aim of the study is to describe farming methods in mountain areas, indicating innovative possibilities of using sheep wool. Material and methods: The material consisted of literature studies and own research on management in mountain areas. Own research and literature analyzes have shown that, due to its properties, wool obtained from mountain sheep can be used as a natural fiber in a biodegradable composite and constitute an alternative to plastic packaging. The introduction of natural fibers in the fertilizer composite can improve not only soil fertility but also bring economic effects, such as the use of wool of Polish mountain sheep as part of the circular economy. Results and conclusions: Summarize, the search for alternative directions for the use of sheep wool is of strategic importance for maintaining and even increasing the sheep population in Poland and in other European Union countries. Occurring soil droughts in the summer period affect the reduction of plant yields, and for this reason, the application of biodegradable biocomposite to the soil will not have a negative impact on the environment of mountain pastures and meadows.

Heat-Induced Actuator Fibers: Starch-Containing Biopolyamide Composites for Functional Textiles.

This study introduces the development of a thermally responsive shape-morphing fabric using low-melting-point polyamide shape memory actuators. To facilitate the blending of biomaterials, we report the synthesis and characterization of a biopolyamide with a relatively low melting point. Additionally, we present a straightforward and solvent-free method for the compatibilization of starch particles with the synthesized biopolyamide, aiming to enhance the sustainability of polyamide and customize the actuation temperature. Subsequently, homogeneous dispersion of up to 70 wt % compatibilized starch particles into the matrix is achieved. The resulting composites exhibit excellent mechanical properties comparable to those reported for soft and tough materials, making them well suited for textile integration. Furthermore, cyclic thermomechanical tests were conducted to evaluate the shape memory and shape recovery of both plain polyamide and composites. The results confirmed their remarkable shape recovery properties. To demonstrate the potential application of biocomposites in textiles, a heat-responsive fabric was created using thermoresponsive shape memory polymer actuators composed of a biocomposite containing 50 wt % compatibilized starch. This fabric demonstrates the ability to repeatedly undergo significant heat-induced deformations by opening and closing pores, thereby exposing hidden functionalities through heat stimulation. This innovative approach provides a convenient pathway for designing heat-responsive textiles, adding value to state-of-the-art smart textiles.

ZnO/Cellulose nanocomposite: Recent Developments and Future Prospects

Biocomposites are the amalgamation of two or more biodegradable, eco-friendly materials with different chemical and physical properties. Cellulose-based biocomposites are highly in demand because of their good antibacterial activities as well as their high mechanical strength, thermal stability and flexibility properties. In this review paper, ZnO/cellulose biocomposites have been chosen to discuss in detail. ZnO is an n-type, nontoxic, low cost semiconductor with a band gap of 3.4 eV; hence, more preferable over other semiconductor materials for preparing semiconductor-cellulose biocomposites. In recent time, ZnO-cellulose biocomposites have attracted great research attention for optical (UV sensing, shielding, etc.), bioelectronics (antibacterial, drug uses, etc.), mechanical (toughness, etc.), electric (di-electric, etc.), and thermal applications. In the majority of literature, ZnO/cellulose biocomposites are either used in UV-related applications, like in cosmetic products to act as a protector or in antimicrobial activities like food packaging, fungus treatment, etc. In this paper, we have extensively included the literature reported till date on the preparation and characterization of ZnO-cellulose biocomposites. The preferable applications of the as-prepared biocomposites are also discussed in detail to find out the future scope of these biocomposites for practical applications.

Classifications and applications of biocomposites: a bibliometric review and analysis

The growing environmental concern for the rational use of natural resources has driven the development of new materials. Biocomposites have receiving increasing attention due to the enormous potential to replace synthetic materials in certain applications, together with the environmental gains offered. The present work aimed at review studies that developed Biocomposites and to carry out a bibliometric analysis using a keyword: “Biocomposite”. Based on the bibliometric analysis using the VOSviewer software and the Scopus and Web of Science databases, it was possible to verify the number of publications over the years as well as the countries and authors with the most published articles on the topic. Thereafter, a review providing an overview regarding the compositions of biocomposites, topics that need improvement, characterization properties, main applications and environmental benefits obtained with their use was carried out. The obtained results showed that needs for the development of new researches in order to improve biocomposites when compared to synthetic composites.

Sporopollenin exine capsules with polypeptide multilayer films promoting cell adhesion

Sporopollenin exine capsules (SECs), extracted from plant pollen, are emerging as attractive and natural microcapsules for a wide range of bio-composite applications due to their abundant availability, chemical and mechanical robustness, species-specific architectural features, striking structural uniformity, and large inner cavity. However, SECs have a predominantly hydrophobic interface hindering their application in biomaterials. Thus, developing robust surface functionalization strategies to increase their hydrophilicity would open the door to interfacing microcapsules with cells. Herein, we create SECs with increased surface hydrophilicity coated by polypeptide multilayer films using layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly technology. Furthermore, human bone marrow-derived stem cells adhere more to these LbL-treated SECs acting as seed cells for tissue engineering. In summary, our findings demonstrate that LbL modification of SECs improves their functional properties and has broad implications across bio-composite applications.

Water absorption behavior and physico‐chemical and mechanical performance of PLA‐based biopolymers filled with degradable glass fibers

AbstractPoly(lactic acid) (PLA)‐based biopolymers filled with degradable glass fibers were submitted to real life conditions, selected based on their potential applications as beverage containers, to evaluate the feasibility of their usage at the required operational conditions. To do so, several media (i.e., buffer solutions at pH = 3, 5, 7.5, 12 and alcoholic solution) and temperatures (25, 37, 55 and 70°C) were applied to mimic the storage of food, beverage, and detergents inside or in direct contact with the bio‐based prototypes. Their mechanical, spectroscopic (FTIR) and morphological (SEM) features were evaluated and compared with samples after immersion. Water absorption increased with the increasing temperature, with maximum values achieved in alcoholic solutions indicating a more severe interaction of media with the functional groups of the samples. The diffusivity, D, increased with temperature, indicating faster water diffusion rate, especially in strong alkaline media. Treatments at pH 12 led to the most relevant degradation. This behavior was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis that evidenced a strong decrease of the ester band at 1755 cm−1 and the dissolution of the external layer of the polymeric matrix, which became more evident at higher temperatures, where several glass fibers emerged from the bulk. Tensile and flexural tests indicated a softening of the material and an increase in the plasticity of the samples with the increasing temperature. Evident embrittlement of samples was observed at higher temperatures, suggesting an increase in the crystallinity degree of the biopolymer. The obtained results showed the suitability of the PLA‐based biocomposites for applications that do not require high temperatures for long periods of time. Also, the tested materials were proved to resist washing with mild detergents. These results will help in the designing of the new improved PLA‐based biocomposites to meet with the target objectives on their applications.

Extraction of natural cellulosic fiber from Myriostachia wightiana stems using chemical retting and its characterization for bio-composite applications

Extraction of natural cellulosic fiber from Myriostachia wightiana stems using chemical retting and its characterization for bio-composite applications

Enzyme-immobilized hierarchically porous covalent organic framework biocomposite for catalytic degradation of broad-range emerging pollutants in water

Efficient enzyme immobilization is crucial for the successful commercialization of large-scale enzymatic water treatment. However, issues such as lack of high enzyme loading coupled with enzyme leaching present challenges for the widespread adoption of immobilized enzyme systems. The present study describes the development and bioremediation application of an enzyme biocomposite employing a cationic macrocycle-based covalent organic framework (COF) with hierarchical porosity for the immobilization of horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The intrinsic hierarchical porous features of the azacalix[4]arene-based COF (ACA-COF) allowed for a maximum HRP loading capacity of 0.76 mg/mg COF with low enzyme leaching (<5.0 %). The biocomposite, HRP@ACA-COF, exhibited exceptional thermal stability (∼200 % higher relative activity than the free enzyme), and maintained ∼60 % enzyme activity after five cycles. LCMSMS analyses confirmed that the HRP@ACA-COF system was able to achieve > 99 % degradation of seven diverse types of emerging pollutants (2-mercaptobenzothiazole, paracetamol, caffeic acid, methylparaben, furosemide, sulfamethoxazole, and salicylic acid)in under an hour. The described enzyme-COF system offers promise for efficient wastewater bioremediation applications.

Extensive characterization of novel cellulosic biofiber from leaf sheath of Licuala grandis for biocomposite applications

Extensive characterization of novel cellulosic biofiber from leaf sheath of Licuala grandis for biocomposite applications

Estimating the bias related to DNA recovery from hemp stems for retting microbial community investigation.

The industrial hemp plant Cannabis sativa is a source of vegetable fiber for both textiles and biocomposite applications. After harvesting, the plant stems are laid out on the ground and colonized by microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) naturally present in the soil and on the stems. By producing hydrolytic enzymes that degrade the plant wall polymers, the natural cement that binds the fiber bundles together is removed, thus facilitating their dissociation (retting process) which is required for producing high-performant fibers. To investigate temporal dynamics of retting microbial communities (density levels, diversity, and structure), a reliable protocol for extracting genomic DNA from stems is mandatory. However, very little attention has been paid to the methodological aspects of nucleic acid extraction, although they are crucial for the significance of the final result. Three protocols were selected and tested: a commercial kit (FastDNA™ Spin Kit for soil), the Gns-GII procedure, and a custom procedure from the Genosol platform. A comparative analysis was carried out on soil and two different varieties of hemp stem. The efficiency of each method was measured by evaluating both the quantity and quality of the extracted DNA and the abundance and taxonomy of bacterial and fungal populations. The Genosol protocol provides interesting yields in terms of quantity and quality of genomic DNA compared to the other two protocols. However, no major difference was observed in microbial diversity between the two extraction procedures (FastDNA™ SPIN Kit and Genosol protocol). Based on these results, the FastDNA™ SPIN kit or the Genosol procedure seems to be suitable for studying bacterial and fungal communities of the retting process. It should be noted that this work has demonstrated the importance of evaluating biases associated with DNA recovery from hemp stems. KEY POINTS: • Metagenomic DNA was successfully extracted from hemp stem samples using three different protocols. • Further evaluation was performed in terms of DNA yield and purity, abundance level, and microbial community structure. • This work exhibited the crucial importance of DNA recovery bias evaluation.

Nanocellulose-Based Thermoplastic Polyurethane Biocomposites with Shape Memory Effect

In 2020, we published a review on the study of semi-crystalline thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers and composites based on the shape memory effect. The shape recovery ability of such polymers is determined by their sensitivity to temperature, moisture, and magnetic or electric fields, which in turn are dependent on the chemical properties and composition of the matrix and the nanofiller. Nanocellulose is a type of nanomaterial with high strength, high specific surface area and high surface energy. Additionally, it is nontoxic, biocompatible, environmentally friendly, and can be extracted from biomass resources. Thanks to these properties, nanocellulose can be used to enhance the mechanical properties of polymer matrices with shape memory effect and as a switching element of shape memory. This review discusses the methods for producing and properties of nanocellulose-based thermo-, moisture-, and pH-sensitive polyurethane composites. The synergistic effect of nanocellulose and carbon nanofillers and possible applications of nanocellulose-based thermoplastic polyurethane biocomposites with shape memory effect are discussed. A brief description of nanocellulose terminology is also given, along with the structure of shape memory thermoplastic polyurethanes. There is significant interest in such materials for three primary reasons: the possibility of creating a new generation of biomaterials, improving the environmental friendliness of existing materials, and exploiting the natural renewability of cellulose sources.

Epoxy Resin Biocomposites Reinforced with Flax and Hemp Fibers for Marine Applications

A broader application of biocomposites still faces many challenges regarding structural integrity, environmental resistance, and biodegradability. These issues are particularly important when their marine applications are considered. Therefore, this paper seeks to address the hygroscopicity, mechanical properties, and biofouling resistance of biocomposites made of epoxy resin with 28 m% bio-based carbon content reinforced with flax and hemp fibers. A series of experiments are performed to acquire water absorption rates, saturation limits, mass increase, tensile and flexural properties, interlaminar shear strength, impact resistance, and mass gain due to biofouling. All tests of mechanical properties are conducted before and after immersion in seawater. The acquired saturation limits of flax/epoxy and hemp/epoxy biocomposites amount to 7.5% and 9.8%, respectively. The water uptake causes the tensile and flexural properties to decrease by 26–74%, while interlaminar and impact strength increase for flax/epoxy and decrease for hemp/epoxy biocomposites. In addition, it is observed that in almost all cases, flax/epoxy has superior properties compared with hemp/epoxy biocomposites. It is expected that this research will motivate naval architects and classification societies to consider biocomposites as prospective hull materials that provide both structural integrity and environmental sustainability.

Synthesis and characterization of lignin nanoparticles isolated from oil palm empty fruit bunch and application in biocomposites

Synthesis and characterization of lignin nanoparticles isolated from oil palm empty fruit bunch and application in biocomposites

Evaluation of mechanical properties of biocomposites treated with date palm fiber

The utilization of environmentally friendly composite materials for building insulation offers a practical solution to reducing energy consumption. This study explores the application of novel biocomposites, comprising cement, sand, treated (DPFT) and raw (DPF) date palm fibers and their influence on the thermal and mechanical properties of mortars. The samples were prepared with varying weight percentages of date palm fibers (0%− 20%), treated with NaOH, and possessing a fiber length of 7 mm. Water absorption, density, resistance to bending and compression, thermal conductivity and diffusivity were encompassed. The results indicate that incorporating treated fibers has a beneficial effect on the thermal and mechanical properties of the composite when compared to using raw fibers. Additionally, higher proportions of DPF lead to decreased thermal conductivity, diffusivity, and resistance to bending and compression, highlighting the positive impact of DPFT on the composite’s thermal and mechanical attributes. Notably, the treated fiber composite significantly enhances the insulation capacity of the mortar.

A review of recent developments in structural applications of natural fiber-Reinforced composites (NFRCs)

Natural fiber-reinforced composites (NFRCs) are expected to find growing applications in near future, especially in Europe where stringent environmental codes are being legislated and public pressure for their enforcement is increasing. Study has shown that NFRCs are also gaining recognition among civil engineers as a viable alternative to traditional materials for use as concrete reinforcement in load-bearing structural members as in building frames and bridge decks. The present review strives to provide a brief overview of NFRCs, state-of-the-art developments in their manufacture, and examples of their structural applications. Another aspect of the review involves investigation of the challenges facing the use of fiber composite materials in civil engineering. These include the high manufacturing costs, difficulties associated with appraisal of its potential benefits, uncertainties about their properties, lack of understanding among civil engineers of the material and its service life, and the relatively small battery of standards developed for the composite industry. Finally, the study will conclude with the prospects of bio-composite applications and the emerging trends in novel bio-composites for future structural applications.

Recent Development in the Processing, Properties, and Applications of Epoxy-Based Natural Fiber Polymer Biocomposites

Growing environmental concerns have increased the scientific interest in the utilization of natural fibers for the development of epoxy biocomposite materials. The incorporation of one or more fibers in the production of hybrid epoxy polymer composites has been a subject of discussion. It is interesting to acknowledge that natural/synthetic fiber hybridized epoxy composites have superior properties over natural/natural fiber hybridized epoxy composites. Significant efforts have been devoted to the improvement of natural fiber surface modifications to promote bonding with the epoxy matrix. However, to achieve sufficient surface modification without destroying the natural fibers, optimization of treatment parameters such as the concentration of the treatment solution and treatment time is highly necessary. Synthetic and treated natural fiber hybridization in an epoxy matrix is expected to produce biocomposites with appreciable biodegradability and superior mechanical properties by manipulating the fiber/matrix interfacial bonding. This paper presents a review of studies on the processing of epoxy natural fiber composites, mechanical properties, physical properties such as density and water absorption, thermal properties, biodegradability study, nondestructive examination, morphological characterizations, and applications of epoxy-based natural fiber biocomposites. Other aspects, including a review of variables that enhance the mechanical and functional performance of epoxy/natural fibers composites while also increasing the biodegradability of the composite material for environmental sustainability, were presented. The future research focus was elucidated. It is hoped that this review will stimulate and refocus research efforts toward advancing the manufacture of epoxy/natural fiber composites to meet the growing demand for biocomposite materials in the global world.