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Hemp, jute, banana, kenaf, ramie, sisal fibers 317

Figure 9.4 The fractured surfaces of the sisal fibers.
Reproduced from Belaadi A, Bezazi A, Bourchak M, Scarpa F: Mater Des 46:76e83, 2013.
9.7 Plant fibers as reinforcements in biocomposites

Plant fibers are hydrophilic due to their high cellulose content. Poor interfaces between
fibers and matrix are obtained when hydrophilic fibers reinforce hydrophobic matrices.
Composites from plant fibers can be fabricated by several methods such as compres-
sion molding, vacuum bag molding, resin transfer molding, etc. Proper selection and
control of processing parameters such as temperature, pressure, time, etc. are manda-
tory requirements to manufacture good composites. The parameters would control fi-
ber degradation, resin flow, pore creation, cross-linking, and fiber wetting, etc., which
affect the composites. Summerscales et al. and other researchers reviewed plant fibers,
and the use of these fibers as reinforcements in composites (Batra, 2007; Summer-
scales et al., 2010a,b; Dempsey, 1975).

9.8 Future prospects

Currently, the plant fiberereinforced composites are mostly used for indoor applica-
tions, and their potential in outdoor applications could be enhanced if the above issues
related to plant fibers were addressed. In future, effort will be on the fiber surface mod-
ifications, their use in various thermoset and thermoplastic matrices, composite pro-
cessing, hybrid composites, mechanics, modeling, applications, and life-cycle
assessment. Further research on fibers and their reinforcement potential has to be car-
ried out. The moisture absorption of the fiber and fiber matrix has to be addressed to
improve properties.

9.9 Conclusion

The use of plant fibers is increasing in composites due to their environmental and eco-
nomic benefits. Plant fiberereinforced composites have significantly developed over