Bio-based wood polymer nanocomposites: A sustainable high-performance material for future

Abstract

Numerous studies are underway on the preparation and applications of petroleum-based polymer nanocomposites. The depletion of world oil pool, nonbiodegradability, and raising cost of petroleum-based materials are some of the disadvantages allied with these polymers-based products. The utilization of renewable materials has attracted researchers because of its easy availability and low cost. They can potentially remove the harmful effects of petroleum-based materials and thus show a greener path in the fields of application of composites. The biocomposites developed by using renewable polymers such as furfuryl alcohol, poly(lactic acid), gluten, starch, soy flour, etc., and naturally available fibers have been gaining considerable attention because of their environmentfriendly nature. Wood is a biologically derived biodegradable raw material which requires minimum processing energy. Wood polymer composites (WPC) have tremendous advantageous properties and it rapidly improves the mechanical, physical, chemical as well as other properties of the composite suitable for different outdoor and indoor applications. The properties of the WPC can be improved to the desired level through the application of nanotechnology, cross-linking agents, flame retardants, grafting, etc. Nano-based wood polymer composite provides versatile advantages in their properties compared to the conventional WPC. Flame retardants obtained from renewable resource such as the gum of the plant Moringa oleifera can efficiently improve the flame retardancy along with other properties of the composites. This chapter discusses the various properties of renewable polymerbased wood polymer nanocomposites as a potential, sustainable, green composite to attain durability without using harmful chemicals.