Plant Fiber Reinforced Polymeric Composites for Engineering Applications: A Review

Abstract

Purpose: Scientists are looking for unconventional materials to achieve sustainable goals and reduce the consumption of non-renewable resources. This review focuses on polymeric composite materials with improved properties and low cost, synthesized from plant fibres and their potential fields of application.   Theoretical Framework: Natural fibers, which are globally accessible, play a crucial role in improving thermal and mechanical properties when incorporated into polymers. With remarkable stiffness-density, strength and lightness, fibers stand out as promising, low-cost composite materials for applications in various areas of engineering. The plant diversity of the Amazon makes Brazil one of the largest global producers of natural fibers, providing an opportunity to develop new sustainable technologies.   Method/Design/approach: Systematic literature review addressing potential applications of polymeric materials with plant fibers, fiber extraction methods, influence of fiber surface treatments and composite processing, and mechanical properties of polymeric composites with fibers.   Results: Polymer composites reinforced with natural fibers are emerging as sustainable alternatives to synthetic materials, driven by their ecological nature, easy availability, low cost and biodegradability. A systematic review of the literature revealed that the mechanical properties of these composites are intrinsically linked to various factors, such as fibre orientation and length, which require careful optimization. In addition, it was observed that surface treatments, such as chemical acetylation and alkaline treatments, play a crucial role in improving the properties of plant fiber reinforced materials. These processes are responsible for removing impurities present in the cell walls of the fibers, such as lignins, waxes and hemicellulose, among others. Given Brazil's significant potential in the production of natural fibers, their application in industrial contexts is promising, offering an environmentally friendly solution for waste management. Thus, it is believed that, in the future, plant fibers will gain even more prominence, possibly effectively replacing the synthetic fibers widely used in the market.   Research implications: This work contributes to the development of innovative, low-cost, sustainable materials, capable of minimizing the consumption of non-renewable resources and with potential applicability.   Originality/value: The results are promising for the development of environmentally sustainable polymer composites with plant fibers, with wide applications in engineering.