17 Jan 2024 | Thinesh Sharma Balakrishnan, Mohamed Thariq Hameed Sultan, Farah Syazwani Shahar, Suhas Yeshwant Nayak, Ain Umaira Md Shah, Tamer Ali Sebaey & Adi Azriff Basri
This review article explores the potential of plant fibers as alternatives to synthetic fibers in pultruded fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. The authors highlight the environmental and economic benefits of using sustainable materials, such as lightweight properties, recyclability, and reduced energy consumption. Kenaf and jute fibers have been extensively studied for their mechanical and physical properties under various test parameters. While pultruded plant fiber composites (PFCs) exhibit good mechanical properties, they have limitations in water absorption, which restricts their use in outdoor applications. The article also discusses the importance of chemical treatments to improve fiber-matrix adhesion and reduce hydrophilicity. Hybrid composites, combining plant and synthetic fibers, show improved mechanical and physical properties compared to pure PFCs, making them suitable for moderate load-bearing applications. The future scope includes enhancing PFCs through advanced coatings, surface engineering, and the use of bio-based resins and thermoplastic pultrusion techniques. The research aims to develop eco-friendly and high-performance materials for structural applications, aligning with the global trend towards sustainability and environmental responsibility.This review article explores the potential of plant fibers as alternatives to synthetic fibers in pultruded fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. The authors highlight the environmental and economic benefits of using sustainable materials, such as lightweight properties, recyclability, and reduced energy consumption. Kenaf and jute fibers have been extensively studied for their mechanical and physical properties under various test parameters. While pultruded plant fiber composites (PFCs) exhibit good mechanical properties, they have limitations in water absorption, which restricts their use in outdoor applications. The article also discusses the importance of chemical treatments to improve fiber-matrix adhesion and reduce hydrophilicity. Hybrid composites, combining plant and synthetic fibers, show improved mechanical and physical properties compared to pure PFCs, making them suitable for moderate load-bearing applications. The future scope includes enhancing PFCs through advanced coatings, surface engineering, and the use of bio-based resins and thermoplastic pultrusion techniques. The research aims to develop eco-friendly and high-performance materials for structural applications, aligning with the global trend towards sustainability and environmental responsibility.