Natural Fiber Thermoplastic Composites

N.E. MARCOVICH; M.M. REBOREDO; M.I. ARANGUREN

Handbook of Thermoplastics (Second Edition)

CRC Press

Lugar: Boca Ratón; Año: 2015; p. 725 - 750

Increasing environmental awareness throughout the world has greatly impacted materials engineering and design. Renewed interest in the utilization of natural materials addresses ecological issues such as recyclability and environmental safety [Kabir et al, 2012;]. Therefore, this century has witnessed remarkable achievements in green technology in the field of materials science through the development of natural fiber composites [Faruk et al, 2012]. Natural fibers are renewable resources, abundantly available, especially in tropical areas. On the other hand, their poor dimensional stability, cracking, and degradation of mechanical properties due to moisture uptake conspires against the durability and reliability of their performance. Natural-reinforced plastics offer an attractive alternative for cost-effective applications; however, severe limitations are imposed due to their low strength and modulus. Traditionally, woodflour-filled molding compounds have been extensively used for products, such as pan-handles, electric meter cases, and parts of cars. In addition, natural fiber-reinforced composites are particularly suited to structural and decorative applications in the transport, marine, offshore and construction industries [Aranguren el al, 2007].