Plant fiber‐reinforced composites based on injection molding process: Manufacturing, service life, and remanufacturing

Abstract

AbstractResource depletion and environmental degradation have become important issues affecting the human development process. Plant fiber‐reinforced composites (PFRCs) are characterized by high natural availability, good mechanical properties, low density, recyclability, and eco‐friendliness. Expanding human applications of plant fibers is an important measure to combat resource and environmental problems. The injection molding process has the characteristics of strong product size adaptability, high molding precision, and high production efficiency. It is suitable for large‐scale production in the industry and is one of the main molding methods of PFRCs. Currently, there are still challenges and opportunities for high‐performance manufacturing of PFRCs based on the injection molding process. This article reviews the complete process of manufacturing‐service life‐remanufacturing of PFRCs based on the injection molding process. Emphasis is placed on the pretreatment technology and selection strategy of multi‐phase blended raw materials, the molding process conditions, functional applications, and simulation analysis, the aging and degradation characteristics during service, and the remanufacturing characteristics of the composites. Finally, the future research focus is summarized and prospected. The research in this paper will help promote the continuous progress of key technologies in the production process of PFRCs and help the industry to truly realize high‐performance green manufacturing in the future.Highlights Plant fibers exhibit variability in morphology and properties. The link between the structure and performance of PFRCs is unclear. The degradability and durability of PFRCs are contradictory. The functionality and mechanical properties of PFRCs are contradictory. PFRCs have good characteristics for remanufacturing.