A Review on the Thermal Characterisation of Natural and Hybrid Fiber Composites

Abstract

The thermal stability of natural fiber composites is a relevant aspect to be considered since the processing temperature plays a critical role in the manufacturing process of composites. At higher temperatures, the natural fiber components (cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin) start to degrade and their major properties (mechanical and thermal) change. Different methods are used in the literature to determine the thermal properties of natural fiber composites as well as to help to understand and determine their suitability for a certain applications (e.g., Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and differential mechanical thermal analysis (DMA)). Weight loss percentage, the degradation temperature, glass transition temperature (Tg), and viscoelastic properties (storage modulus, loss modulus, and the damping factor) are the most common thermal properties determined by these methods. This paper provides an overview of the recent advances made regarding the thermal properties of natural and hybrid fiber composites in thermoset and thermoplastic polymeric matrices. First, the main factors that affect the thermal properties of natural and hybrid fiber composites (fiber and matrix type, the presence of fillers, fiber content and orientation, the treatment of the fibers, and manufacturing process) are briefly presented. Further, the methods used to determine the thermal properties of natural and hybrid composites are discussed. It is concluded that thermal analysis can provide useful information for the development of new materials and the optimization of the selection process of these materials for new applications. It is crucial to ensure that the natural fibers used in the composites can withstand the heat required during the fabrication process and retain their characteristics in service.

Fabrication and Characterization of Transparent and Uniform Cellulose/Polyethylene Composite Films from Used Disposable Paper Cups by the “One-Pot Method”

“…However, in this work, cellulose/PE composite film with a uniform structure could be achieved by the “one-pot method” without any pretreatment. Differently from previous works, where the natural fibers were usually used as the reinforced phase [ 34 , 35 , 36 , 37 ], in this work the bamboo-based paper board was dissolved and regenerated into a cellulose film matrix, and the undissolved PE pieces were used as the additives. Hence, transparent cellulose/polyethylene composite films were achieved.…”

“…With the development of science and technology, it is known that materials with single components cannot always meet social needs, and composite materials now play an important role in our daily life [ 34 , 35 ]. Bio-composites, natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites, are now recognized as being significant composite competitor materials to conventional composite due to their attractive features, which include being lightweight, having high strength, and possessing a specific stiffness, and they have been widely investigated and used in various construction and building fields [ 36 , 37 ].…”

“…Bio-composites, natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites, are now recognized as being significant composite competitor materials to conventional composite due to their attractive features, which include being lightweight, having high strength, and possessing a specific stiffness, and they have been widely investigated and used in various construction and building fields [ 36 , 37 ]. However, more efforts should be made in developing new bio-composites and optimizing these materials for new applications [ 35 ]. Generally, cellulose cannot be processed by the melting method or dissolved in most organic solvents because of their copious hydrogen bonds [ 38 , 39 , 40 ].…”

A Comprehensive Review of Types, Properties, Treatment Methods and Application of Plant Fibers in Construction and Building Materials

“…Different surface treatments are used to enhance the thermal stability of plant fibers. Various techniques are applied to evaluate the thermal characteristics of plant fiber composites, and to recognize and assess the applicability of various plant fibers for specific applications [5]. The approaches applied in the literature to analyze the thermal stability of plant fibers include differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA).…”

“…The sources of natural fibers are minerals, plants, and animals. Neto et al [5] presented the broad classification of natural fibers into three main groups: plant (e.g., cellulose/lignocellulose), mineral, and animal fibers (Figure 1). Accordingly, fibers are broadly classified into three categories: (1) natural plant fibers, (2) manmade fibers, and (3) synthetic fibers.…”