Kenaf-biocomposites: Manufacturing, characterization, and applications

Abstract

Given the environmental issues faced by the industry, the development of engineering products from natural resources has increased worldwide. The increasing demand for cost and weight reduction can be attained by sustainable manufacturing techniques. Kenaf plants are natural resources, which show high performance compared with other natural fibers. Kenaf fibers can be modified by physical and chemical methods. Kenaf polymer composites are fabricated via processing technologies based on thermoforming, thermoplastics, and thermosets. Thermoplastic processes, such as compression molding, pultrusion, extrusion, and solution blending, have been adapted but are limited to two-dimensional structures based on polymer composites. However, the thermoset processes include sheet molding and resin transfer molding techniques, which were also employed for the fabrication of kenaf polymer composites. Most of the recent work discussed Kenaf-Reinforced Composites (KRCs) prepared by compression molding. However, resin transfer molding has received attention because of its versatility. This chapter aimed to highlight and explore advance research related to the fabrication of kenaf polymer composites by various routes, as well as their physical and mechanical properties. A brief description of KRCs with different additives, fiber loadings, treatment, and polymers is also discussed. Furthermore, these KRCs with versatile mechanical properties may be used for construction, building materials, animal beds, corrosion resistance, marine, electrical, transportation, and automotive applications.