Review of Chemical Treatments of Natural Fibers: A Novel Plastination Approach

Natural fiber-reinforced polymer (NFRP) composites have several advantages over synthetic fiber-reinforced composites, mainly that they use fibers from a renewable resource. However, to achieve sufficient mechanical properties and resist microbial degradation and fire, natural fibers often require careful chemical treatments. In this chapter, a review of common chemical treatments used for natural fibers is outlined. An overview of results from a new treatment process by the authors, namely plastination, is also discussed.