Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer in Automotive Application: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Efforts to develop effective and innovative materials are increasingly being developed by researchers, especially in the development and utilization of NFRP (Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer) in the automotive sector due to increased demand and increased ecological awareness. The purpose of this literature review article is to provide up-to-date information on the application of NFRP and plastic recycling in the automotive sector as well as consideration of selecting natural fibers for use as reinforcing composites in the automotive sector. This literature review focuses on the progress of the development of polymeric materials applied in the automotive field. Referring to defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 30 articles in polymer composite studies published between 2015 and 2020 were selected for further investigation. The analysis of selected studies revealed that several leading car manufacturers have produced and developed products from NFRP or recycled plastics with natural fiber reinforcement because they are relatively cheap, lightweight, and able to reduce exhaust emissions. The great potential of using NFRP materials and recycled plastics in the automotive sector presents a future challenge, namely the increasing need for natural fiber in the long term which will certainly have an impact on ecosystems and biodiversity.