A review on properties of bamboo fiber polymer composites and bamboo/glass fiber/nanoclay hybrid composites

Abstract

Bamboo fiber-reinforced composites have emerged as environmentally friendly, plentiful, and high-mechanical-performance materials used in recent years. This review presents an overview of the mechanical and water uptake properties of bamboo fiber polymer composites and bamboo/glass fiber/nanoclay hybrid composites to consider their structural and industrial applications. Bamboo fibers have better mechanical properties compared to polymers. Moisture absorption and fiber surface treatments influence their long-term functionality. Hybrid composites of bamboo, glass fibers, and nanoclay have revealed synergistic mechanical and water uptake properties. Adding nanoclay enhances interfacial adhesion and prevents void formation, improving overall mechanical performance. This review also discusses the impact of hybridization ratios and fiber surface treatments on bamboo fiber composite behavior. The results suggest that, whereas bamboo fiber polymer composites are suitable for applications requiring lightweight composites, hybrid composites exhibit better mechanical properties to be used in advanced engineering applications. Future research topics will include the optimization of hybrid compositions and sustainable treatment strategies to enhance the performance and longevity of these composites further.