Recent Development in the Processing, Properties, and Applications of Epoxy-Based Natural Fiber Polymer Biocomposites

Abstract

Growing environmental concerns have increased the scientific interest in the utilization of natural fibers for the development of epoxy biocomposite materials. The incorporation of one or more fibers in the production of hybrid epoxy polymer composites has been a subject of discussion. It is interesting to acknowledge that natural/synthetic fiber hybridized epoxy composites have superior properties over natural/natural fiber hybridized epoxy composites. Significant efforts have been devoted to the improvement of natural fiber surface modifications to promote bonding with the epoxy matrix. However, to achieve sufficient surface modification without destroying the natural fibers, optimization of treatment parameters such as the concentration of the treatment solution and treatment time is highly necessary. Synthetic and treated natural fiber hybridization in an epoxy matrix is expected to produce biocomposites with appreciable biodegradability and superior mechanical properties by manipulating the fiber/matrix interfacial bonding. This paper presents a review of studies on the processing of epoxy natural fiber composites, mechanical properties, physical properties such as density and water absorption, thermal properties, biodegradability study, nondestructive examination, morphological characterizations, and applications of epoxy-based natural fiber biocomposites. Other aspects, including a review of variables that enhance the mechanical and functional performance of epoxy/natural fibers composites while also increasing the biodegradability of the composite material for environmental sustainability, were presented. The future research focus was elucidated. It is hoped that this review will stimulate and refocus research efforts toward advancing the manufacture of epoxy/natural fiber composites to meet the growing demand for biocomposite materials in the global world.