Abstract
Now-a-days, newer polymer matrix composites reinforced with fibers such as glass, carbon, aramid, etc. are getting a steady expansion in uses because of their favorable mechanical properties. Despite these advantages, the widespread use of synthetic fibre-reinforced polymer composite has a tendency to decline because of their high-initial costs, their use in non-efficient structural forms and most importantly their adverse environmental impact. On the other hand, the increase interest in using natural fibres as reinforcement in plastics to substitute conventional synthetic fibres in some structural applications has become one of the main concerns to study the potential of using natural fibres as reinforcement for polymers. In the light of this, researchers have focused their attention on natural fiber composite (i.e. bio-composites) which are composed of natural or synthetic resins, reinforced with natural fibers. The use of natural fibers, derived from annually renewable resources, as reinforcing fibers in both thermoplastic and thermoset matrix composites provide positive environmental benefits with respect to ultimate disposability and raw material utilization.
Key words: Bio composites, Reinforcement, Matrix, Thermoplastic composites
Introduction
Overview of composites
Over the last thirty years composite materials, plastics and ceramics have been the dominant emerging materials. The volume and number of applications of composite materials have grown steadily, penetrating and conquering new markets relentlessly. Modern composite materials constitute a significant proportion of the engineered materials market ranging from everyday products to sophisticated niche applications. While composites have already proven their worth as weight-saving materials, the current challenge is to make them cost effective.
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