Natural Fiber-Based Biocomposites

Due to the depletion of fossil resources such as crude oil, coal and natural gas, the impact of energy crisis is becoming more severe as seen from the intense fluctuation of the crude oil price. The growing public concern of using petroleum-based synthetic polymers has stimulated the interest in biodegradable materials from the renewable resources. Recent years have seen a remarkable progress in the development of biocomposites. There is abundant literature concerning the physical properties, manufacturing, applications, and many other aspects of biocomposite research. In this chapter, biodegradable polymers and fillers are introduced in details. A brief overview of some key elements in biocomposites research is given, including surface modification of natural fibers; classification of biocomposites and their general properties; manufacturing of the biocomposites; and applications of the biocomposites.