Developments in Chemical Treatments, Manufacturing Techniques and Potential Applications of Natural-Fibers-Based Biodegradable Composites

Abstract

The utilization of synthetic materials stimulates environmental concerns, and researchers worldwide are effectively reacting to environmental concerns by transitioning towards biodegradable and sustainable materials. Natural fibers like jute and sisal have been being utilized for ages in several applications, such as ropes, building materials, particle boards, etc. The absence of essential information in preparing the natural-fiber-reinforced materials is still a challenge for future applications. Chemical treatments and surface modifications can improve the quality of the natural fibers. Natural-fiber-based composites are a potential candidate for many lightweight engineering applications with significant mechanical properties. In the view of the progressive literature reported in the field, this work aims to present the significance of natural fibers, their composites, and the main factors influencing these materials for various applications (automotive industry, for instance). Secondly, we aim to address different surface modifications and chemical treatments on natural fibers and finally provide an overview of natural fiber reinforced polymer composites’ potential applications.

Effect of Alkali Treatment on the Properties of Acacia Caesia Bark Fibres

“…This poses the idea of treatment to improve the characteristics of the fibres, starting with the removal of loose and non-structural matter, then improving tensile performance. In general, sustainable treatments, such as ultraviolet treatment, would preferably be used, starting with an exposure to sunlight [47]. However, substantial improvements are in reality only obtained from procedures mostly applied to ligno-cellulosic fibers, such as flax, hemp and sisal, etc., where alkali treatment is performed on bark fibres; an example is given in [48].…”

Recent Advances in Functional Polymer Materials for Energy, Water, and Biomedical Applications: A Review

“…Currently, energy and sustainable energy have increasingly gained a leading position as the most important global concerns in view of the increased depletion of fossil fuels. Material and nanomaterial-based polymers and their composites are investigated in many various applications related to energy storage and production (Figure 2), including batteries, solar cells, super-capacitors, domestic tools, vehicles, fuel cells, biomedical equipment, and surgical appliances [36][37][38][39][40][41][42][43][44]. Conducting polymers are organic polymers that can conduct electricity, and they also may be used as semiconductors.…”

A Comprehensive Review of Artificial Intelligence and Wind Energy

“…Cost optimization not only refers to minimizing costs, but also to defining different variables in economic terms to operate in the same units [252,253]. Variables commonly considered are maintenance costs [166, 210,254], availability [255], power dispatch [155] and environmental and geographical data [256,257].…”