Environmentally Significant Cellulose Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites

Abstract

Natural cellulose fibers have attracted significant interest for manufacturing advanced polymer composites due to their environmental friendliness (renewability and biodegradability), easy availability, high stiffness and strength, easy processability, and modifiable surfaces. Many applications have been developed and more are being explored for cellulose fiber reinforced polymer composites. In different regions in the world the focus is on developing and usingdifferent cellulose based polymer composites for a variety of applications. For examples, In North America, wood based cellulose fibers have been extensively researched for manufacturing polymer composites in applications in the construction sector, such as outdoor decking and siding. In Europe, these composites are being investigated for fuel efficient and recyclable automotive components. In India and South America jute and sugar cane fiber reinforced polymers are being investigated for structural applications in housing. In this chapter, the physical, mechanical, and chemical properties of cellulose fibers of different origins will be presented. The processes used to manufacture cellulose fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites will then be introduced followed by the performance of these composites. A major challenge in using natural fibers as reinforcement for polymers is the poor adhesion between the fibers and the matrices. As a result, surface modification of the fibers is an active area of research and development and is comprehensively covered in this Chapter. Another area of active investigation is the use of nano-fibers as reinforcements. The status and challenges in this area are also summarized.