Title: Advances in natural fibre reinforced polymer composites: macro to nanoscales

Authors: S. Thomas, L.A. Pothan, B.M. Cherian

Addresses: School of Chemical Sciences, Mahatma Gandhi University, Priyadarshini Hills P.O, 686560, Kottayam, Kerala, India. ' Department of Chemistry, Bishop Moore College, Mavelikara, 690110, Kerala, India. ' Department of Chemistry, Bishop Moore College, Mavelikara, 690110, Kerala, India

Abstract: This short review deals with the possibilities for the development of advanced composite materials with natural fibres as reinforcement. In this paper natural fibre reinforcement from micro to nano level is described. The length scale of the natural fibres could be controlled from macro to nano scales to fabricate macro, micro and nano composites in order to meet the end requirements. By modifying the interface and using novel processing techniques a variety of products could be manufactured.

Keywords: natural fibres; micro fibrils; nanofibrils; green composites; cellulose whiskers; fibre reinforced composites; polymer composites; advanced composites; nanotechnology.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMPT.2009.027839

International Journal of Materials and Product Technology, 2009 Vol.36 No.1/2/3/4, pp.317 - 333

Published online: 12 Aug 2009 *

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