Recent trends in preparation and applications of biodegradable polymer composites

Abstract

This review efficiently covers the research progress in the area of polymer bio composites in perspective of the modern-day renewable materials. In the last decade, attraction towards the bio-composite based systems has been the topic of interest due to their potential as a substitute of conventional materials produced in important manufacturing industries. Recently, preparation of biocompatible and biodegradable polymer composites is an important achievement as an alternative of petrochemical based renewable products. Successful production of eco-friendly bio-composite materials have been achieved with natural fibers viz jute, bamboo, hair, flex, wool, silk and many others instead of synthesized fibers like carbon, glass dispersed in synthesized resins viz poly vinyl alcohol, epoxy and etc. Bio-materials based on natural fibers dispersed in natural matrix like natural rubber or polyester have also been obtained with endless applications for the mankind. The utilization of such materials for the good well of mankind is attributed to their ease of disposal and being renewable. The last but not the least, the extraordinary mechanical properties of bio-composites make them superior to many other conventional materials. This review paper addresses the recent trends, mechanical and chemical properties, synthesis, and application of bio-composites in the recent years.