Biobased composites:: A 21ST Century perspective

Biobased resources have played a major role throughout human history. Even the earliest humans learned to Use these resources to make shelters, cook food, construct tools, make clothing, keep records and produce weapons. Collectively, society learned very early the great advantages of a resource that was widely distributed, multifunctional, strong, easy to work, aesthetic, biodegradable and renewable. Composites made of biobased resources are being "rediscovered" in the 21(st) century. Many concepts are circulating in the press, at scientific meetings, in discussions and on web new sites all over the world on the advantages of using a "green", "low cost", "biodegradable "renewable", "recyclable", and "sustainable" resource to produce composites. While these are powerful concepts, they are often misapplied, misused, and misunderstood. These are not just "buzz" concepts that are used in a grant to get funding. They are part of the reason biobased composites are getting more attention in the materials world. The largest single potential growth in the use of biobased resources is in the composites sector. More specifically, in housing components. Issues to be considered in this sector include land use. resource supply, carbon sequestration, reduced energy use, utilization of mixed resources, recycling, competing materials, durability, life cycle assessment, quality assurance, codes and standards, tradition, marketing, and appropriate use.