Introduction to Natural Fiber Reinforced Vinyl Ester and Vinyl Polymer Composites

Abstract

In recent years, the polymer industry has intensified its efforts to produce renewable material based polymer. Therefore, the use of natural fiber composites has been widely considered in various engineering sectors to replace conventional synthetic composite usage. This is because natural fiber composite properties are easily disposed and environmentally friendly in generating economic and sustainability societies. Vinyl polymer is a group of matrices comprising of thermosets and thermoplastics that are normally preferred as matrices with natural fibers. Both groups have their own unique features in benefiting their applications. The composite made of thermoset resin cannot be reprocessed or recycled. The composites of the thermoset matrix tend to provide good mechanical strength, are fragile and have low tensile effects. This is in contrast to the properties of the thermoplastic polymer that can be formed and diluted without changing its physical properties. Thermoplastic has excellent impact resistance and ductile. However, various approaches continue to be carried out by researchers to meet the requirements of natural fiber composites in different applications.

Natural fibres as promising environmental-friendly reinforcements for polymer composites

“…Natural fibres are also subjected to aging and degradation problem, which restricts their use for longer periods of time. 129,130 In addition, adhesion of natural fibres with the matrix is also lesser strong when compared with synthetic fibres. However, this weak adhesion problem can be and is being solved by surface modification of fibres.…”

Biodegradable Nonwoven Agrotextile and Films—A Review

“…Cellulose provides fibres with good strength, stiffness, structural stability, and determines hygroscopic properties [ 44 , 45 ]. The plant structure is strengthened through the presence of pectin, an acidic heteropolysaccharide composed of modified glucuronic acid and rhamnose residues [ 46 ].…”

The Challenges and Future Perspective of Woven Kenaf Reinforcement in Thermoset Polymer Composites in Malaysia: A Review

“…Unfortunately, the combination of natural fibers and thermoset matrix results in weak interfacial bonding due to the presence of a hydroxyl group, limiting their optimal use in industrial application. Thus, a wide range of strategies have been applied to eliminate these deficiencies while providing interfacial bonding compatibility and strength between natural fibers and polymer matrix [ 32 ].…”