Development of Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites: A Critical Review

Fiber reinforced composites are made by reinforcing fibers in a polymeric matrix and shaping them to fit. Natural fibers, on the other hand, such as jute sisal, hemp, flax etc. are increasingly commonly utilized as reinforcements and perform similarly to artificial fibers. Man-made fibers like as carbon, glass, and kevlar are utilized as reinforcements in the start and have shown to be the best in terms of characteristics, reinforcing capacity, and usefulness. Research investigations also show that when man-made and natural reinforcements are combined in a hybrid form, the composite characteristics increase significantly. The composite material obtains all of the better qualities of individual fibers as a result of this combination, and when the composite is subjected to varying loads, each fiber gives its own maximal resistance. The chemical and physical properties are further enhanced by including particular reinforcements into polymer matrix composites, which provide whole new features (which has transformed the aerospace, marine, defence, and automobile industry). As a result, the composite would be better in all attributes. The current study provides a thorough examination of the different challenges concerning the synthesis and mechanical characterization of natural fiber reinforces hybrid polymer composites. Future difficulties, as well as areas of use for polymer matrix composites, have been investigated that may aid in the elimination of plastic waste and the reduction of environmental pollution. © 2024 Wiley-VCH GmbH.