Synthesis and Mechanical Properties of Natural Fiber Reinforced Epoxy/Polyester/Polypropylene Composites: A Review

ABSTRACT

Natural fiber is a resource that is found abundantly and cost effective. It is decomposed easily and biodegradable. Natural fibers have a vital place in the industry and have the capability of replacing carbon fibers and conventional glass because of their biodegradability and eco-friendly characteristics. They have significant chemical, mechanical, and physical properties, which vary according to cellulose content in the fiber. Usually, with the increase in the cellulose content, the tensile strength of the fiber increases and with the increase in the non-cellulose content, the tensile strength of the fiber decreases. However, these chemical constituents are not the only factors that determine the tensile strength of the fiber. Certain other factors such as fiber age, maturity, location, and processing methods along with the source of the fiber also influence the tensile strength of the fiber. These properties of the natural fibers make it a vital component in engineering applications. Natural fibers meet the needs of humans and the manufacturing industry with their positive environmental effect and economic outlook. This review provides basic information and a segregated study on the mechanical properties of natural fibers, thus creating opportunities for future research and studies related to natural fiber–reinforced composites.

Graphical abstract

摘要

天然纤维是一种资源丰富，成本低廉. 它容易分解和生物降解. 天然纤维由于其可生物降解性和环保性，在工业中占有重要地位，有能力取代碳纤维和传统玻璃. 它们具有显著的化学、机械和物理性质，根据纤维中纤维素含量的不同而不同. 通常，随着纤维素含量的增加，纤维的拉伸强度增加; 而随着非纤维素含量的增加，纤维的拉伸强度降低. 然而，这些化学成分并不是决定纤维抗拉强度的唯一因素. 某些其他因素，如纤维的年龄、成熟度、位置、加工方法以及纤维来源也会影响纤维的抗拉强度. 天然纤维的这些特性使其成为工程应用中的重要组成部分. 天然纤维以其积极的环境效应和经济前景满足了人类和制造业的需求. 本综述提供了天然纤维力学性能的基本信息和单独研究，从而为未来与天然纤维增强复合材料相关的研究创造了机会.

KEYWORDS:

• Epoxy
• polyester
• polypropylene
• injection molding
• compression molding
• resin transfer molding

关键词:

• 环氧树脂
• 聚酯
• 聚丙烯
• 注塑成型
• 压缩成型
• 树脂传递模塑