Biodegradable polymer composites from natural fibres

Biodegradable polymer composites from natural fibres 

In response to the accelerating use of non-renewable resources and products derived from these resources, many countries have sought to stimulate green chemistry and the production and use of green products derived from nature. This has led to a search for new products that are environmentally sustainable and compatible with the environment. Composite materials are no exception to this new paradigm and there is therefore considerable interest by manufacturers in developing new green composites. 

Wood or plant fibres are of interest in polymer reinforcement for a number of reasons, espeeially their low cost, low weight and non-abrasiveness to proeessing equipment. In addition, natural fibres are C02-neutral when burned, have attractive aeoustic and thermal insulation properties and have good specific mechanical properties. The research literature contains many examples of studies in whieh the reinforcement of non-degradable thermoplastics like polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl ehloride (PVC) and polyesters with wood or plant fibres has been investigated (Bledzki and Gassan, 1999 Kandaehar, 2002). Reinforcement of thermosets such as epoxies and polyurethanes with natural fibres has also been explored. A summary of the mechanieal properties of selected plant fibres derived from various literature sourees is shown in Table 8.1 (Lilholt and Lawther, 2000 Kandaehar, 2002 Bledzki and Gassan, 1999 Wambua et al, 2003). 

Fibre type Density (%) Tensile strength (MPa) Young s modulus (GPa) Elongation (%) 

Sources Lilholt and Lawther (2000), Kandaehar (2002), Bledzki and Gassan (1999) Wambua et at (2003) 

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Biodegradable polymer composites from natural fibres... 

Plackett D V and Andersen T L (2002), Biocomposites from natural fibres and biodegradable polymers processing, properties and future prospects , Ldholt H et al.. Sustainable Natural and Polymeric Composites - Science and Technology,... 

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