Biocomposites
- It is a composite material made from a matrix (resin) reinforced with natural fibers or particles (such as wood, hemp, or agricultural waste) to create a stronger, often more sustainable alternative to traditional plastics
- Synthetic matrix materials, along with natural fibres, are used to form hybrid biocomposites.
- Biocomposites are degradable, renewable, non-abrasive and non-toxic, with comparable properties to those of synthetic fibre composites.
- The production of synthetic composites is energy extensive, while biocomposites save energy.
- Biocomposites are regarded as the best replacement for synthetic composites because of their comparable mechanical properties and eco-friendly nature.
- Manufactured through conventional methods such as compression molding, hand lay-up, injection, extrusion and pultrusion.
Automobile industry: Various natural fibers such as flax, hemp, kenaf, jute, coir, and sisal are used to produce biocomposites for automobiles. Biocomposites are also used in automobiles to reduce overall weight, cut down production costs, and improve fuel efficiency. Biocomposites are used to produce different components, such as bumpers, door panels, seat pads, cup holders, trunk covers, armrests, headrests, and seat pads. Furthermore, biocomposites are known to reduce vibrations and noise through damping.
Construction & Textile industry: In the construction industry, biocomposites are used to manufacture windows, doors, window frames, ceilings, floor mating, and roof tiles. Load-bearing applications include the manufacturing of floor slabs, beams, pipes, and tanks. Furthermore, biocomposites are employed in the repairing and rehabilitation of various structural components. Due to better thermal and acoustic properties, natural fiber composites are used as insulating and soundproofing materials.
Biocomposites have poor fire resistance, restricted processing temperature, low thermal resistance, high hydrophilicity, low mechanical and thermo-physio properties and poor fibre–matrix adhesion. Due to their hydrophilic nature, these composites tend to absorb water from the immediate environment, causing the composite to swell.