Advancements in Biofibers and Biopolymers for Biocomposites (original) (raw)

Journal of Fibers and Polymer Composites

Recently, due to the environmental harm caused by synthetic materials, researchers and scientists are now focusing more on developing and using biofibers and biopolymers for making biocomposites. As a result, ecologically friendly biocomposites, which are made from biofibers and biopolymers, are being emphasized as the greatest alternative for preventing environmental damage and competing with synthetic composites in the composite field. Also, synthetic materials provide challenges in the manufacturing area due to energy consumption, material cost, and availability; as a result, biofibers and biopolymers are used as alternative renewable resources due to their processing conditions and low energy requirements. The biofibers (banana, kenaf, sisal, areca, jute, coir, flax, hemp, bamboo, silk, wool, etc.,) are available in cellulose and protein-based forms, both of which contain lignin, and are classified as plant, animal, or mineral fibers depending on their origin. Plant fibers mostly consist of cellulose, whereas animal fibers mostly consist of protein. These biofibers have lower flame retardant qualities and emit less CO2 when burned. When these biofibers are used for making to a composite, their hydrophilic nature attracts water molecules, resulting in a reduction in the consistency as well as the adhesive nature with the matrix material. To avoid these issues, the biofibers are chemically treated, which improves their compatibility with the matrix phase. Biopolymers come in