From last few decades’ composite materials, ceramics and plastics has made a mark in the field of materials. Applications of these materials in engineering arespecially attributed to their low specific weight and comparatively high strength. Applications of composite materials vary from the basic daily needs to sophisticated luxury applications. The demand of natural fiber in the composite materials has been increased owing to low density, low cost and biodegradable properties of natural fiber.But at the same time the natural fibers has certain disadvantages viz. they are hydrophilic in nature due to which there is poor incompatibility of natural fiber with the matrix. This intensity of this disadvantage can be reduced with the help of chemical treatment of natural fibers. Natural fiber has tendency of water absorption, which can also be reduced with chemical treatment. There are number of factors which affect the properties of natural fiber reinforced composite viz. fabrication method, environment condition during fabrication, fiber and its quantity, matrix material. Any slight modification in the above said variables leads to change in the properties of the final composite material. In the present work, the tensile and flexural properties of natural fiber (abaca fiber) reinforced TPU composites have been investigated. The content of natural fiber in composites has been varied from 0 to 30 wt%. The reinforced fibers were chemically treated with NaOH followed by treatment with maleic anhydride in acetone, prior to fabricating of samples by injection moulding. It is observed that the composite containing 10 wt% of abaca fiber has highest tensile strength among all the composites fabricated for this study, whereas the tensile strength of pure TPU sample has maximum among all the samples fabricated during this research work.Maximum flexural strength is observed ofthe composite containing 30 wt% of abaca fiber.SEM examinations of the fractured surface reveal that primary failure mechanisms in composite as fiber fracture and fiber pull-out.

Research on natural fiber composites is an emerging area in the field of polymer science with tremendous growth potential for commercialization. Hybrid Natural Fiber Composites: Material Formulations, Processing, Characterization, Properties, and Engineering Applications provides updated information on all the important classes of natural fibers and their composites that can be used for a broad range of engineering applications. Leading researchers from industry, academia, government, and private research institutions from across the globe have contributed to this highly application-oriented book. The chapters showcase cutting-edge research discussing the current status, key trends, future directions, and opportunities. Focusing on the current state of the art, the authors aim to demonstrate the future potential of these materials in a broad range of demanding engineering applications. This book will act as a one-stop reference resource for academic and industrial researchers working in R&D departments involved in designing composite materials for semi structural engineering applications. - Presents comprehensive information on the properties of hybrid natural fiber composites that demonstrate their ability to improve the hydrophobic nature of natural fiber composites - Reviews recent developments in the research and development of hybrid natural fiber composites in various engineering applications - Focuses on modern technologies and illustrates how hybrid natural fiber composites can be used as alternatives in structural components subjected to severe conditions

This book covers the recent research advances on the utilization of date palm fibers as a new source of cellulosic fibers that can be used in the reinforcement of polymer composites. It discusses the competitive mechanical, physical, and chemical properties which make date palm fibers stand out as an alternative to other fibers currently used in the natural fiber composites market. This volume will be useful to researchers working on natural fiber composites and fiber reinforced composites looking to develop green, biodegradable and sustainable components for application in automotive, marine, aerospace, construction, wind energy and consumer goods sectors.

Composite materials have been well developed to meet the challenges of high-performing material properties targeting engineering and structural applications. The ability of composite materials to absorb stresses and dissipate strain energy is vastly superior to that of other materials such as polymers and ceramics, and thus they offer engineers many mechanical, thermal, chemical and damage-tolerance advantages with limited drawbacks such as brittleness. Composite Materials: Manufacturing, Properties and Applications presents a comprehensive review of current status and future directions, latest technologies and innovative work, challenges and opportunities for composite materials. The chapters present latest advances and comprehensive coverage of material types, design, fabrication, modelling, properties and applications from conventional composite materials to advanced composites such as nanocomposites, self-healing and smart composites. The book targets researchers in the field of advanced composite materials and ceramics, students of materials science and engineering at the postgraduate level, as well as material engineers and scientists working in industrial R& D sectors for composite material manufacturing. - Comprehensive coverage of material types, design, fabrication, modelling, properties and applications from conventional composite materials to advanced composites such as nanocomposites, self-healing and smart composites - Features latest advances in terms of mechanical properties and other material parameters which are essential for designers and engineers in the composite and composite reinforcement manufacturing industry, as well as all those with an academic research interest in the subject - Offers a good platform for end users to refer to the latest technologies and topics fitting into specific applications and specific methods to tackle manufacturing or material processing issues in relation to different types of composite materials

Natural Fiber-Reinforced Composites In-depth overview of thermal analysis of natural fiber-reinforced composites In Natural Fiber-Reinforced Composites: Thermal Properties and Applications, a team of distinguished researchers has delivered a comprehensive overview of the thermal properties of natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites. The book brings together information currently dispersed throughout the scientific literature and offers viable and environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional composites. The book highlights the thermal analysis of natural fiber-reinforced composites with techniques such as Thermogravimetric Analysis, Dynamic Mechanical Analysis, Thermomechanical Analysis, Differential Scanning Calorimetry, etc. This book provides: A thorough review of the thermal characterization of natural fiber-based hybrid composites Detailed investigation of the thermal properties of polymer composites reinforced with various natural fibers such as flax fiber, pineapple leaf fiber, sisal, sugar palm, grass fiber and cane fiber Discussions on the thermal properties of hybrid natural fiber-reinforced composites with various thermosetting and thermoplastic polymers Influence of nanofillers on the thermal stability and thermal decomposition characteristics of the natural fiber-based hybrid composites Natural Fiber-Reinforced Composites: Thermal Properties and Applications is a must-read for materials scientists, polymer chemists, and professionals working in the industry. This book is ideal for readers seeking to make an informed decision regarding materials selection for applications involving thermal insulation and elevated temperature. The suitability of natural fiber-reinforced composites in the automotive, mechanical, and civil engineering sectors is highlig

Biomass obtained from agricultural residues or forest can be used to produce different materials and bioenergy required in a modern society. As compared to other resources available, biomass is one of the most common and widespread resources in the world. Thus, biomass has the potential to provide a renewable energy source, both locally and across large areas of the world. It is estimated that the total investment in the biomass sector between 2008 and 2021 will reach the large sum of $104 billion. Presently bioenergy is the most important renewable energy option and will remain so the near and medium-term future. Previously several countries try to explore the utilization of biomass in bioenergy and composite sector. Biomass has the potential to become the world’s largest and most sustainable energy source and will be very much in demand. Bioenergy is based on resources that can be utilized on a sustainable basis all around the world and can thus serve as an effective option for the provision of energy services. In addition, the benefits accrued go beyond energy provision, creating unique opportunities for regional development. The present book will provide an up-to-date account of non-wood, forest residues, agricultural biomass (natural fibers), and energy crops together with processing, properties, and its applications to ensure biomass utilization and reuse. All aspects of biomass and bioenergy and their properties and applications will be critically re-examined. The book consists of three sections, presenting Non wood and forest products from forestry, arboriculture activities or from wood processing, agricultural biomass (natural fibers) from agricultural harvesting or processing and finally energy crops: high yield crops and grasses grown especially for energy production.​

Natural fibres are becoming increasingly popular for use in industrial applications, providing sustainable solutions to support technical innovation. These versatile, natural based materials have applications in a wide range of industries, from textiles and consumer products to the automotive and construction industries. Industrial Applications of Natural Fibres examines the different steps of processing, from natural generation, fibre separation and fibre processing, to the manufacturing of the final product. Each step is linked to fibre properties and characterization, highlighting how different fibres influence the product properties through a discussion of their chemical and structural qualities. Considering the value-added chain from natural generation to final product, with emphasis on quality management, this book reviews the current research and technical applications of natural fibres. Topics covered include: Introduction to the Chemistry and Biology of Natural Fibres Economic Aspects of Natural Fibres Vegetable Fibres Animal Fibres Testing and Quality Management Applications: Current and Potential Industrial Application of Natural Fibres will be a valuable resource for scientists in industry and academia interested in the development of natural based materials and products. It is particularly relevant for those working in chemical engineering, sustainable chemistry, agricultural sciences, biology and materials sciences.