A review on extraction, chemical treatment, characterization of natural fibers and its composites for potential applications

Abstract

In recent days, natural fiber reinforced polymer composite is more popular due to its extensive properties suitable for various potential applications. The attention towards natural fibers is because of low cost, biodegradable, recyclability, nonabrasive, combustible, lightweight, and nontoxic properties. However, there is a need for furthermore fundamental knowledge for the raw materials processing and fabrication of composite structures, which is still challenging in current days. Natural fiber sources exist all over the world, which is obtained from animals, plants and minerals. The quality of the natural fibers depends on the extraction methods and different processing techniques. These natural fibers surface characteristics could be enhanced by selecting suitable surface treatment and chemical treatment. These fiber treatments reduce the water intake percentage, improve the adhesive nature, and enhance the overall performance of resulting polymer composites. Among all the chemical treatments, alkaline treatment (NaOH) is the most preferred chemical treatment because of its effectiveness and its low cost. This review article proposes the natural fibers detailed classification, composition, structure, properties, and extraction methods, chemical and surface treatments. We also summarize the previous research work findings on the fibers treatment, properties of natural/natural hybrid polymer composites and natural/synthetic hybrid polymer composites with applications.

Evaluation of impact, thermo‐physical properties, and morphology of cornhusk fiber‐reinforced polyester composites

“…Later, treated fibers were dried in sunlight. [37,38] The fiber modification process with 8% NaOH is shown in Figure 2.…”

Investigation of mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties of novel Acacia arabica fiber polyester hybrid composites

“…[10] Natural fiber reinforced polymer composites have a wide range of applications in the automotive, construction, packaging, electrical, and aviation industries. [11][12][13][14][15] The use of biodegradable sources in polymer products reduces carbon emissions caused by the burning of plastics. [16] Uma Devi, Bhagawan and Sabu Thomas [17] investigated the mechanical properties of pineapple leaf fiber reinforced polyester composite and it was discovered that the best mechanical properties are obtained when the fiber length is 30 mm and the fiber content is 30%.…”

Evaluation of mechanical, thermal and morphological properties of corn husk modified pumice powder reinforced polyester composites

“…Furthermore, the inclusion of fillers not only improves the functional characteristics of the material but also lowers its cost. [28][29][30] Corn husk fiber (CHF) reinforcement in polymer composites is being investigated and examined on a regular basis, which is quite fascinating. It is light in weight, strong, cheap and is available abundantly.…”