Green Polymer Composites Based on Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Fibers

Abstract

The increasing demand for environmental and waste management policies globally has motivated researchers to focus on the development of biocomposites from renewable resources such as lignocellulosic materials and biopolymers in order to protect the environment. The release of polymers as waste materials generated a significant problem to the environment after service life. Authorities globally are encouraging people to employ more green materials from renewable resources. Biodegradable polymers from natural resources provide with an excellent opportunity to reduce the reliance on petroleum-derived polymers such as polyethylene and polypropylene. Among the well-known biodegradable polymers, polylactic acid (PLA) has a huge commercial potential because of its good biocompatibility, aesthetics, and easy processability in different mixing techniques. Polylactic acid is a biodegradable from renewable resources such as starch and corn. Currently, attention has been paid to the use of bio-reinforced composites which are applied in automotive, construction, and packaging applications. This chapter discusses the current research efforts, challenges, different preparation methods, and applications of polylactic acid (PLA)/fiber composites.