This site explores natural fiber composites and their multitude of uses. Natural fibre composites combine plant-derived fibers with a plastic binder. The natural fiber component may be wood, sisal, hemp, coconut, cotton, kenaf, flax, jute, abaca, banana leaf fibers, bamboo, wheat straw or other fibrous material, and the binder is often recycled plastic (usually PVC or polyethylene). Advantages of natural fiber composites include light weight, low-energy production and sequestration of carbon dioxide (reducing the "greenhouse effect"). A political / social advantage is that some production can be "farmed out" to semi-skilled indigenous workers. Replacement of fiberglass with natural fibers removes concern about the potential of lung disease caused by the former and is a move toward sustainable development.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Natural Fibre Composites
Companies in the Natural Fiber Composite Space
Conferences and Other Educational Resources