Natural Fibres in the European Automotive Industry

Abstract

In the eighties, studies carried out in Germany and the EU forecasted very large market potentials for composites from flax and other natural fibres. Although considerable research and development was carried out, 1 the development of these markets proved far more difficult and long-term than previously expected. The ambitious German flax program, backed by substantial funding, did not survive these hard times. Only in recent years, did an actual industrial demand for natural fibres develop. Nowadays, the use of natural fibres in certain applications has already become a matter of course, something which no one had dared to expect only five years ago. The most important customer is the automotive industry.

A review of the recent developments in biocomposites based on natural fibres and their application perspectives

“…Depending on the natural fibre used, the profiles exhibited specific properties equivalent to those of glass fibre reinforced composites. This makes natural fibre reinforced biocomposites appropriate candidates for potential applications in the automotive industry [155]. D-LFT processes essentially combine compounding and moulding into an integrated process.…”

Effect of water absorption on the mechanical properties of hemp fibre reinforced unsaturated polyester composites

“…Fibres from hemp stems have been widely used in the production of cords and clothing, and have potential for reinforcement in polymer-matrix composites (PMCs). Recently, car manufacturers have started manufacturing non-structural components using hemp and flax fibres due to their higher specific strength and lower price compared to conventional reinforcements [6].…”

Natural Plant Fiber Composites-Constituent Properties and Challenges in Numerical Modeling and Simulations

“…With the objective to reduce weight, cost and environmental impact, the automotive industry became the largest consumers of plant fiber composites which are used on structures such as door panels [Al-Oqla and Sapuan, 2014], seat backs, dashboard, pillar cover, engine insulation, headliner panel and parcel shelves [Maity et al, 2014;Karus and Kaup, 2002;Koronis et al, 2013;Nadlene et al, 2016;Marsh, 2003;Bharath and Basavarajappa, 2016;Holbery and Houston, 2006]. As a good insulating material, plant fiber composites are used in construction industry [Korjenic et al, 2016;Kalyankar and Uddin, 2012;Christian and Billington, 2011].…”