Lignin as a Sustainable Filler in Composites: Fabrications, Mechanical Properties, and Applications

Abstract

This chapter reviews the recent progress of polymer composites that use lignin as reinforcing fillers, including the production methodologies and applications. Lignin is a naturally abundant and renewable bio-polymer. Due to its high stiffness, it usually serves as the structural component when integrated into polymer matrices. The addition of lignin as reinforcement of thermoplastic and elastomeric systems not only improves mechanical properties but also introduces various functional properties such as biocompatibility, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. These composites can be produced with a variety of morphologies and particle sizes, which allows them to be used in different applications such as smart materials, biomedical devices, structural components, and energy storage. The expanding interest in lignin-based composites reflects an increasing emphasis on the development of sustainable materials in the area of advanced composites.