Unveiling new frontiers: Bast fiber‐reinforced polymer composites and their mechanical properties

Abstract

Bast fibers such as flax, hemp, and jute‐reinforced polymer composites due to their exceptional properties are gaining significant demand as a sustainable and cost‐effective alternative to conventional synthetic fiber‐reinforced composites. This comprehensive study aims to shed light on the potential of bast fiber reinforced composites (BFRCs) as innovative materials for various industrial applications. The manuscript presents a comprehensive discussion on bast fibers, polymer matrices, and the fabrication techniques employed to produce BFPCs, highlighting the effects of different modification techniques on the resulting mechanical properties. Industrial and structural applications of BFPCs are explored, with a specific focus on their use in the automotive and aerospace industries, construction materials, and sporting goods. Finally, the manuscript concludes with a discussion of the challenges and future prospects of BFPCs. This manuscript can serve as a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and professionals interested in the emerging field of bast fiber‐reinforced polymer composites. It opens new frontiers in material design and highlights the enormous potential of BFPCs to revolutionize industrial applications through their exceptional mechanical properties.Highlights Materials and processing of fiber‐reinforced polymer nanocomposites. Exploration of various fiber and matrix modification techniques. Recent advances in the mechanical properties of bast fiber‐reinforced composites. Ashby charts to illustrate the comparative analysis.

Towards sustainable and ecofriendly polymer composite materials from bast fibers: a systematic review

“…Bast fiber-reinforced polymer composites have been identified as candidates that can help transition towards more circular economies [3]. They serve not only to reduce the reliance on fossil-based materials, but also contribute to the sequestration of atmospheric carbon dioxide during their growth [4]. Furthermore, the potential for these composites to be recycled or biodegraded aligns with the increasing legislative pressures for sustainable materials solutions [5].…”

Effect of UV‐water weathering on the mechanical properties of flax‐fiber‐reinforced polymer composites

“…2,3 Despite these advantages, the long-term durability of plant fiber-reinforced polymer composites (PFRP) remains an open question. Some pilot projects have attempted to use PFRP in structures like pedestrian bridges, 4 concrete tube strengthening wrappers, 5 and sandwich panels made of jute FRP composites. 6 However, the durability of these applications is still uncertain.…”