Sustainable and Naturally Derived Wet Spun Fibers: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Increasing economic and environmental concerns arising from the extensive exploration and dependence on fossil fuel-based materials have encouraged the search for eco-friendly alternatives. Fibers based on biomass-derived materials have been attracting growing interest. Among other features, the mechanical performance of bio-based fibers needs to be improved to effectively compete with their counterparts and emerge as viable substitutes. This review presents scientific advancements in the development of naturally derived fibers, and strategies for their production with tailored mechanical properties. The potential of natural precursor-based fibers for their conversion into high-performance carbon fibers is also emphasized. Studies reporting the mechanical properties of bio-based fibers developed by wet spinning are identified, analyzed, and discussed. These studies show that cellulose is the most studied material, while Ioncell technology is identified as the most suitable method for producing cellulose-based fibers with the highest tensile strength. Studies have also demonstrated that silk fibroin exhibits tensile strength and elongation at break ranging from 300 to 600 MPa and 30 to 50%. Although several novel processes have been explored, there are still challenges that need to be addressed for bio-based fibers to become feasible options, and to boost their usage across industries.