A Review of Natural Fiber Composites for Structural, Infrastructural and Ballistic Applications

Abstract

Natural fiber composites are becoming suitable alternative material to replace synthetic fibers like carbon, Kevlar and E-glass. Natural fibers are having the properties of biodegradability, renewability, and low density. Nowadays, researchers are showing interest in natural fibers to draw natural fiber-reinforced composites (NFRC). NFRC is generally used in the construction sector for non loading members and researchers are evaluating the applications of NFRC in load-carrying members of the structural and infrastructural areas. The hybridization of natural fibers and synthetic fibers have good results over the plain natural fiber composites. The main problem with natural fibers is that properties are significantly influenced by the source of fiber, type of fiber, and fiber treatment. This chapter presents the review of natural fiber composites applications in structural, infrastructural, ballistic, and fire resistance wings.