Life cycle assessment of bio-composite laminates. A comparative study

Abstract

The use of glass fiber reinforced plastics is steadily increasing in the aerospace industry for aircraft interiors. However, the glass fiber reinforced plastics, although provide a robust solution they have many issues concerning their environmental friendliness. An alternative environmentally friendly solution for aircraft interiors is the use of bio-composites. Bio-composites used in this kind of applications are made of natural fibers as reinforcement and the use of bio-resins as matrix material. In the present study a life-cycle assessment approach is applied to selected bio-composites scenario and the comparison were made against the currently used glass fiber reinforced plastics. Results show the use of flax fiber reinforced materials seems to have lower environmental impact.