The term biocomposite is specifically employed for the biodegradable plastics reinforced with natural fibers. Biocomposites are gaining more attention due to the growing environmental concerns, as the synthetic fibers and polymeric resins used for conventional composites are non-biodegradable, and their recycling is uneconomical due to complex and heterogeneous compositions. Contrary to this, natural fibers are a renewable source, with worldwide availability. Both the biopolymers and natural fibers are biodegradable and therefore easily decomposed without spoiling the environment. This chapter provides a brief introduction to biocomposites and their various application areas. The constituents of biocomposite, i.e., natural fibers and biodegradable polymers, along with their classifications and properties, are discussed in detail. Owing to the hydrophilic property of natural fibers, there are certain limitations of biocomposites. These limitations and their remedies have been deliberated in depth. The mechanical performance of biocomposites from published literature with different polymers and reinforcements is also discussed. A brief note on the sustainability and circularity of these composites is also included. The chapter concludes that the biocomposites have the potential to replace glass fiber composites in various applications.

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Bio-composites: Eco-friendly Substitute of Glass Fiber Composites

  • Khubab Shaker,
  • Madeha Jabbar,
  • Yasir Nawab

摘要

The term biocomposite is specifically employed for the biodegradable plastics reinforced with natural fibers. Biocomposites are gaining more attention due to the growing environmental concerns, as the synthetic fibers and polymeric resins used for conventional composites are non-biodegradable, and their recycling is uneconomical due to complex and heterogeneous compositions. Contrary to this, natural fibers are a renewable source, with worldwide availability. Both the biopolymers and natural fibers are biodegradable and therefore easily decomposed without spoiling the environment. This chapter provides a brief introduction to biocomposites and their various application areas. The constituents of biocomposite, i.e., natural fibers and biodegradable polymers, along with their classifications and properties, are discussed in detail. Owing to the hydrophilic property of natural fibers, there are certain limitations of biocomposites. These limitations and their remedies have been deliberated in depth. The mechanical performance of biocomposites from published literature with different polymers and reinforcements is also discussed. A brief note on the sustainability and circularity of these composites is also included. The chapter concludes that the biocomposites have the potential to replace glass fiber composites in various applications.