Mechanical Properties of Natural Fiber Composites

Abstract

Abstract This topical review covers the mechanical properties of natural fiber composites (NFCs) that allow applications in many application fields ranging from infrastructure to transportation. Climate change alerts on the importance of sustainability and NFCs offer opportunities when compared to conventional glass-fiber composites. Advantages and drawbacks of NFC versus synthetic composites are considered and discussed. Mechanical properties are assessed both statically and dynamically. The hydrophilicity and its consequences on damage and deformation mechanisms are also addressed. The key to making well-reinforced composites is by ensuring that there is a strong interface between the reinforcing phase and the matrix phase. The interfacial bonding quality is thus discussed through various testing methods and the effects of surface treatments are presented.