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Biocomposite materials made of natural plant fibers are becoming a viable alternative to the use of synthetic ones such as glass fibers, thanks to many economic, ecological, and technical benefits. However, their massive use in the industry requires optimal control of their mechanical performances, which constitutes a real scientific issue to be overcome. Indeed, biocomposites suffer from an important variability in their mechanical properties because of their multiscale structure, natural growth conditions, and various processing parameters, in addition to eventual chemical treatments. Biocomposites are also highly sensitive to the surrounding environment in terms of humidity and temperature because of the hydrophilic properties of natural plant fibers. In this context, this Perspective aims to provide a critical look at the influence of the main factors that affect the mechanical properties of biocomposites in order to suggest some possible research outlooks that could contribute to optimizing the control of these mechanical properties and expanding the use of biocomposites in industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Nano-composites of copper and carbon (NCCC) are a novel nanoparticle material. They are synthesized using plant fibers as templates and copper ions as the copper source via a carbonization reduction method. NCCC, as a novel feed additive, possesses attributes such as low dosage requirements, stability, and the potential to mitigate environmental pollution. In the present study, dietary supplementation with NCCC increased the liver Cu/Zn-SOD levels, reduced MDA content, and enhanced antioxidant capacity of Ira white rabbits. Additionally, it decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-1β in the jejunum. Furthermore, metagenomic analysis indicated notable changes in cecal microbial composition, improving the flora structure. In summary, NCCC supplementation improves liver antioxidant capacity, mitigates intestinal inflammation, and alters gut microbiota, thereby promoting the health of Ira white rabbits. This experiment investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with nano-composites of copper and carbon (NCCC) on antioxidants, immune functions, and the cecum microbiota of weaned Ira white rabbits. A total of 240 weaned 35-day-old Ira white rabbits were randomly allocated to five dietary treatments (n = 6 per treatment, each replicate consisted of eight rabbits) that included the control group (CON) with a basal diet, the SAL group with 60 mg/kg salinomycin (SAL) in addition to the basal diet, and the NCCC I, II, III groups, which were supplemented with 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg NCCC, respectively, in addition to the basal diet. The test lasted for 28 d. The results showed that dietary NCCC supplementation increased the liver Cu/Zn-SOD content and up-regulated the gene expression of Cu/Zn-SOD (p < 0.05), while also reducing the content of MDA in the liver and enhancing the antioxidant capacity of Ira white rabbits. Moreover, the NCCC diet supplementation reduced the content of IL-6 and down-regulated the relative expression of IL-6 and IL-1β genes in the jejunum of Ira white rabbits (p < 0.05). In addition, the metagenomic analysis of 16 S rRNA showed significant differences in the cecal microbial structure of weaned Ira white rabbits in the NCCC III group compared with the CON, NCCC I, and NCCC II groups (p < 0.05). Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were the dominant phyla of cecal microorganisms in weaned Ira rabbits in the NCCC diet groups. The dominant genera included unidentified Eubacteriaceae, unclassified Lachnospiraceae, Christensenellaceae, and Ruminococcus. Furthermore, the relative abundance of Ruminococcus in the NCCC I and II groups was lower than that in the CON group in the cecum of Ira white rabbits (p < 0.05). In summary, our results showed that diet supplementation with NCCC could enhance the antioxidant capacity in the liver, alleviate intestinal inflammation, and regulate the structure of intestinal flora, improving the health of Ira white rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of vegetable fibers (VFs) in cement-based composites has increased in recent years owing to their minimal environmental impact and notable particular properties. VFs have aroused interest within the scientific community because of their potential as a sustainable alternative for construction. This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of VFs in cement composites using data from the Scopus database and scientometric tools to explore publication trends, influential sources, and research directions. Key findings reveal a steady increase in publications, with Construction and Building Materials identified as a leading journal in the field and China and Brazil as prominent contributors in terms of publications and citations. The analysis highlights a strong focus on mechanical properties and durability, reflecting the interest of the scientific community in optimizing VF composites for construction. Furthermore, this study includes a revision of the most influential studies addressing VF classification, durability improvements, and advanced applications of VFs in building applications. Finally, future research opportunities are outlined, emphasizing Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), industry integration, CO2 absorption, and the application of machine learning techniques to advance the development of VF composites. This work provides a comprehensive overview of the field, suggesting future guidelines and promoting collaborative research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document discusses the process of ensiling, which is a method for preserving feed, particularly focusing on silage preparation, processing, and efficient utilization. Various studies explore different aspects of ensilage, such as the use of different crops, additives, and techniques to improve fermentation quality and microbial communities. The research aims to enhance the understanding of ensilage practices and contribute to advancements in animal feed production. The studies highlight the importance of utilizing resources effectively to address challenges in the agricultural industry. [Extracted from the article]

Peru is one of the most diverse countries from a geographical and climatic point of view, where there are three large ecosystem regions called coast, Sierra, and jungle. These characteristics result in the country having many hydrographic basins, with rivers of significant dimensions in terms of the width and length of the channel. In this sense, there is a permanent need to provide connectivity and promote trade between communities through road bridge infrastructure. Thus, Peru historically developed a road network and bridges during the Inca Empire in the Tawantinsuyu region, building a cobblestone road network and suspension bridges with rope cables made of plant fibers from vegetation called Coya-Ichu. This is how bridges in Peru have evolved to meet contemporary vehicular demands and provide structural stability and functionality throughout their useful life. This article presents the following sections: (a) an introduction to the evolution of bridges, (b) the current typology and inventory of bridges, (c) the characterization of the largest bridges, (d) a discussion on the architecture, engineering, construction, and structural health monitoring (AECSHM) of bridges in the face of climate change, earthquakes, and material degradation, and (e) conclusions. Finally, this article presents opportunities and challenges in terms of Peru's architecture, engineering, construction, and structural health monitoring of road bridges. Special emphasis is given to the use of technologies from the era of Industry 4.0 to promote the digital construction and structural health monitoring of these infrastructures. Finally, it is concluded that the integration of technologies of sensors, the IoT (Internet of Things), AI (artificial intelligence), UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), remote sensing, BIM (Building Information Modeling), and DfMA (Design for Manufacturing and Assembly), among others, will allow for more safe, reliable, durable, productive, cost-effective, sustainable, and resilient bridge infrastructures in Peru in the face of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the potential application of plant fiber reinforced composites for automotive component applications, this study prepared bamboo fiber (BF)/nano‐talc/polypropylene (PP) composites based on the injection molding process, comprehensively evaluated the effect of reinforcement materials on the forming properties of composites, including thermal performance, mechanical properties, water absorption, etc. Furthermore, taking a certain automotive injection molded interior part as the object, a life‐cycle assessment from production to the gate was conducted based on the real energy and material consumption during the composite preparation process. The results indicate that adding BF and talc powder increased the thermal stability, density, hardness, viscosity, and crystallinity of the composites while reducing the water contact angle on the surface. Surface‐modified BF and PP showed good compatibility. Talc powder exhibited good dispersibility in PP, and the synergistic effect of BF and talc powder effectively enhanced the composite performance. The tensile, flexural, and impact strength of the composites were improved by 40.64%, 51.48%, and 66.51%, respectively, compared with pure PP. The modulus of the composite increased nearly 2 times compared with pure PP. Additionally, the composite demonstrated good friction and wear properties. The environmental impact of the BF composite manufacturing process was significantly higher than that of pure PP. The substantial consumption of electricity, chemicals, and water resources in the extraction and modification processes of BF were the main factors. The findings of this study contribute to achieving green, high‐performance BF composite manufacturing and the expansion of its applications. Highlights: Composites have a higher environmental impact compared to PP.BF and talc can synergistically enhance the performance of composites.BF shows good compatibility with PP.Composites exhibit good friction and wear characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The gene family of myelomatosis (MYC), serving as a transcription factor in the jasmonate (JA) signaling pathway, displays a significant level of conservation across diverse animal and plant species. Cotton is the most widely used plant for fiber production. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of literature reporting on the members of MYCs and how they respond to biotic stresses in cotton. Methods: Bioinformatics analysis was used to mine the MYC gene family in cotton based on InterPro, cottongen, etc. Results: The gene structure, conserved motifs, and upstream open reading frames of 32 GhMYCs in Gossypium hirsutum were identified. Moreover, it was anticipated that the GT1-motif is the most abundant in GhMYCs, indicating that the GT1-motif plays a significant role in light-responsive GhMYCs. The expression patterns of GhMYCs under biotic stresses including V. dahliae and Aphid gossypii were evaluated, suggesting that GhMYCs in class-1 and -3 GhMYCs, which function as negative regulators, are involved in resistance to verticillium wilt and aphids. The class-3 GhMYCs genes were found to be mostly expressed in female tissues. Interestingly, it was also determined that the homeologous expression bias within GhMYCs in cotton was uncovered, and results showed that the gene expression of class-1A and class-2 GhMYCs in the Dt sub-genome may have a direct impact on gene function. Conclusions: This study provides a research direction for researchers and breeders to enhance cotton traits through manipulating individual or multiple homeologs, which laid a foundation for further study of the molecular characteristics and biological functions of GhMYC gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shear strength of soil is a significant engineering property. Recently, the utilization of nature-based elements, including roots and fibers, to enhance soil shear strength for surface applications like erosion control has received considerable attention. The experimental program outlined in this paper encompasses direct shear testing on bare soil, soil-fiber, and soil-root specimens with diverse compositions for parameters. The current study utilized four locally sourced grassroots from the Himalayan region, along with a combination of natural and synthetic fibers, to investigate the enhancement of shear strength in surface soils. A fractional factorial method of experimental design has been implemented for laboratory testing programs. Additionally, data analysis has been conducted to determine factor contributions and optimum parameter for the most favorable results. The findings demonstrate that the incorporation of plant roots and fibers significantly affects the shear strength of the soil matrix. The root area ratio serves as an equivalent for fiber content in soil-root interaction research aimed at improving shear strength at the soil surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights This study investigates the development of a novel biocomposite tailored for sustainable packaging applications, integrating cellulosic woven fiber mats into poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), a biocompatible polymer. Utilizing hot press compression molding, composite boards with a thickness of 3 mm were fabricated. The cellulosic fiber mats were chemically modified with propionic anhydride, enhancing their compatibility with the PHBV matrix. Varied concentrations of reinforced propionylated cellulosic fiber mats (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%) were investigated. The propionylated cellulosic abaca fiber composites exhibited superior functional properties, thermal stability, biodegradability, and mechanical performance compared to pure PHBV matrix. Notably, mechanical properties showed significant improvement with increased cellulosic fiber content, particularly achieving optimal strength at 30 wt% reinforcement. Chemical treatment enhanced interfacial bonding, evident in higher water contact angles and confirmed by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE‐SEM) analysis. The biodegradation rate of biocomposites was faster compared to the control PHBV biopolymer. Despite potential agglomeration issues at higher concentrations, PHBV/chemically modified cellulosic fiber composites hold promise as sustainable packaging materials, contributing to a greener future in packaging applications. Successful preparation of PHBV composites with treated plant fibers. Propionic anhydride treatment enhances fiber‐PHBV bonding and water resistance. Improved strength at 30 wt% treated abaca fiber in PHBV composites. Propionylated fibers enhance biodegradability compared to pure PHBV matrix. Promising sustainable packaging with chemically modified cellulosic fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights One of the challenges to prioritizing a circular economy is the development of composites made with renewable polymer matrices and using agro‐industrial residues such as plant fibers. Aiming to follow the paths of a circular economy, this research aims to develop composites based on a blend of poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) and polylactic acid filled with three plant residues: peanut shell, soybean shell, corn husk, and nitrogen–phosphorus–potassium fertilizer. For this, filaments of systems containing vegetable fiber (5 wt%) and fertilizer (3 wt%) were processed in a single‐screw extruder. The filaments were characterized by Fourier transfer infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetry, differential scanning calorimetry, surface morphological analysis, and mechanical behavior. The FTIR indicated changes in the blend's characteristic bands, suggesting an interaction between the polymer matrix and the fillers. The fertilizer altered the systems' thermal properties and thermal stability. The fertilizer significantly affected (p < 0.05) the mechanical properties in a particular way in each system. Finally, the presence of surface agglomerates were confirmed in the morphological analysis. Additionally, these composites can be applied as raw materials to produce filaments for active manufacturing in the agricultural sector, adding value to the available natural residues while adhering to a circular economy. Poly(butylene adipate co‐terephthalate) (PBAT)/poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composites filaments were produced using agro‐industrial waste; Mineral compound fertilizer was incorporated into PBAT/PLA composites; Agro‐industrial waste in composites adds value to filler and promotes the circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractSeveral historical written sources informs that fibers from the nettle family (Urticaceae) have been used in Scandinavian textile production. Despite this, the limited evidence of preserved nettle textiles brings this into doubt, as no complete textile of local origin has been identified. Everyday textiles made of locally grown plants have generally not been preserved to the same extent as more special textiles, and for that reason their fiber content has not been determined by conclusive methods. Special textiles are often found in ceremonial contexts and are generally made of flax (Linum usitatissimum) and/or hemp (Cannabis sativa). In our search for evidence of a complete textile made in Scandinavia of native nettles (Urtica dioica or Urtica urens) we found a well-known object, a bed sheet from 1827 purportedly woven of nettle, stored at the National Museum in Copenhagen. However, fiber analysis revealed it is made of hemp or possible hop (Humulus lupulus), or a blend of the two. Our examination reveals that historical written sources and plant fiber analysis must be critically examined. From the late 18th to the early 20th centuries botanists included both hemp and hop in the nettle family, causing misinterpretations of “nettle” botany, cultivation, and textile production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights In this study, novel bioresin was prepared together with epoxy resin with five different plant oils such as soybean oil, palm oil, rapeseed oil, cottonseed oil, and flaxseed oil. The samples were formed by adding jute/flax intraply fiber to the bioresin formed by adding these vegetable oils to the epoxy at 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%. While producing these composites, vacuum assisted resin transfer molding method was preferred. Tensile, flexural, impact test, thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetric analysis were applied to samples. Moreover, fiber behavior and delamination of composites were examined by morphological analysis. Tensile test outcomes showed cottonseed oil with 40% oil additive and canola oil with 10% oil addition gave higher strength values to the pure epoxy sample. In the impact test, samples with 20% oil added had an average of 2.7–3.44 times higher absorbed energy. Thermal analysis results indicated 10% and 20% oil addition to epoxy raised the glass transition temperature by an average of 6.65–18.6°C and lowered the decomposition temperatures by 11–24°C. These samples, created by adding vegetable oil to the epoxy without chemical treatment, give the composites considerable elasticity and will be used in areas such as the automotive, construction and aerospace industries. Adding plant oil to epoxy creates sustainable and environmentally composite. The usage of plant oils will reduce dependence on petroleum‐based epoxy. The use of plant oil will further pave the way for green composites. Elasticity and energy absorption characteristics of the material are improved. Elongation percent and glass transition temperature of the material improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There are complex interactions between host and gut microbes during weaning, many of the mechanisms are not yet fully understood. Previous research mainly focuses on commercial pigs, whereas limited information has been known about the host and gut microbe interactions in miniature pigs. Methods: To address the issue in Bama miniature piglets that were weaned 30 days after birth, we collected samples on days 25 and 36 for metabolomics, transcriptomics, and microgenomics analysis. Results and discussion: The average daily weight gain of piglets during weaning was only 58.1% and 40.6% of that during 0-25 days and 36-60 days. Metabolomic results identified 61 significantly different metabolites (SDMs), of which, the most significantly increased and decreased SDMs after weaning were ectoine and taurocholate, respectively, indicating the occurrence of inflammation. Metagenomic analysis identified 30 significantly different microbes before and after weaning. Bacteria related to decreasing intestinal inflammation, such as Megasphaera, Alistipes and Bifidobacterium, were enriched before weaning. While bacteria related to infection such as Chlamydia, Clostridium, Clostridioides, and Blautia were enriched after weaning. The carbohydrate enzymes CBM91, CBM13, GH51_1, and GH94 increase after weaning, which may contribute to the digestion of complex plant fibers. Furthermore, we found the composition of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) changed during weaning. Transcriptomic analysis identified 147 significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The upregulated genes after weaning were enriched in immune response categories, whereas downregulated genes were enriched in protein degradation. Combining multi-omics data, we identified significant positive correlations between gene MZB1, genera Alistipes and metabolite stachydrine, which involve anti-inflammatory functions. The reduced abundance of bacteria Dialister after weaning had strong correlations with the decreased 2-AGPE metabolite and the downregulated expression of RHBDF1 gene. Altogether, the multi-omics study reflects dietary changes and gut inflammation during weaning, highlighting complex interactions between gut microbes, host genes and metabolites." [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Reindeer are primarily distributed across circumpolar regions, and must receive adequate nutrition in order to accumulate body fat during the summer. The gut microbiota plays a vital role in nutrient metabolism. However, differences in the gut microbial composition and metabolic profile between captive and grazing male reindeer during summer need to be further investigated. Our results demonstrated that the gut microbial communities, functions, and metabolic profiles significantly differed between captive and grazing reindeer. Fecal microbes responsible for the metabolism of amino acids and fatty acids were enriched in captive reindeer, while those associated with fiber utilization were abundant in grazing reindeer. These findings suggest that captivity leads to alterations in the gut microbiota and metabolites in reindeer. The reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) is a circumpolar member of the Cervidae family, and has adapted to a harsh environment. Summer is a critical period for reindeer, with peak digestibility facilitating body fat accumulation. The gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in nutrient metabolism, and is affected by captivity. However, differences in the composition of the gut microbiota and metabolites between captive and grazing reindeer during summer remain poorly understood. Here, we conducted a comparative study of the fecal microbiota and metabolites between captive (n = 6) and grazing (n = 6) male reindeer, using full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing and gas chromatography–time-of-flight mass spectrometry, respectively. Our results indicated that Prevotella, Phocaeicola, Papillibacter, Muribaculum, and Bacteroides were the predominant genera in the feces of reindeer. However, microbial diversity was significantly higher in captive reindeer compared to their grazing counterparts. Principal coordinate analysis revealed significant differences in the fecal microbiota between captive and grazing reindeer. In captive reindeer, the relative abundances of the genera Clostridium, Paraprevotella, Alistipes, Paludibacter, Lentimicrobium, Paraclostridium, and Anaerovibrio were significantly higher, while those of the genera Prevotella, Phocaeicola, Pseudoflavonifractor, and Lactonifactor were significantly lower. A comparison of predicted functions indicated that pathways involved in fat digestion and absorption, histidine metabolism, lysine biosynthesis, and secondary bile acid biosynthesis were more abundant in captive reindeer, whereas the pathways of fructose and mannose metabolism and propanoate metabolism were less abundant. An untargeted metabolomic analysis revealed that 624 metabolites (e.g., amino acids, lipids, fatty acids, and bile acids) and 645 metabolites (e.g., carbohydrates and purines) were significantly increased in the feces of captive and grazing reindeer, respectively. In conclusion, we unveiled significant differences in fecal microbiota and metabolites between captive and grazing male reindeer, with the results suggesting a potentially enhanced ability to utilize plant fibers in grazing reindeer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural plant fibers (NPFs) have emerged as a sustainable alternative in the manufacture of composites due to their renewability and low environmental impact. This has led to a significant increase in the use of natural plant fiber-reinforced polymers (NPFRPs) in a variety of industries. The diversity of NPF types brings a wide range of properties and functionalities to NPFRPs, which in turn highlights the urgent need to improve the properties of fiber materials in order to enhance their performance and suitability. This paper provides insight into the processing mechanisms behind NPF fiber treatments, exploring how these treatments affect the mechanical, thermal and environmental properties of NPFRPs. It also offers a critical assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of physical, chemical, biological and nanotechnological treatments. The findings of our analysis provide a basis for the development of future treatments that aim to enhance the material properties of NPFRPs, thereby increasing their competitiveness with conventional synthetic fiber-reinforced polymers. Finally, a novel thermoplastic resin composite system, Elium–NPFRP, is proposed that embodies the principles of green development. The system has been designed with the objective of capitalizing on the environmental benefits of NPFs while simultaneously addressing the challenges associated with the integration of NPFs into polymer matrices. The Elium–NPFRP composite system not only exemplifies the potential of NPFs for sustainable materials science, but is also a practical solution that can be implemented in a diverse range of applications, spanning automotive components to construction materials. This has the potential to reduce carbon footprints and promote a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the properties of composites produced using post-consumer polypropylene (PP) reinforced with lignocellulosic fillers from Nigella sativa (black cumin) and rapeseed pomace. Using agri-food by-products like pomace supports waste management efforts and reduces the demand for wood in wood–plastic composites. The composite production method combined extrusion and hot flat pressing. Mechanical tests showed a decrease in the tested parameters. Compared to the control variant, the MOE decreased by 26.4% (PP_R variant) and 46.9% (PP_N variant), and the MOR value decreased by 78.7% (PP_N) and 55.1% (PP_R). No significant differences in surface roughness parameters were observed. The composite with nigella particles demonstrated increased wettability. TGA tests showed reduced thermal stability compared to PP and differences between composite variants. The composites exhibited susceptibility to fungal overgrowth, which suggests potential biodegradability. The composites demonstrated complete overgrowth by inoculated fungi, reaching 100% coverage, while samples from PP known to be resistant to biological factors remained unaffected. Although the mechanical properties of the composites were degraded, the use of lignocellulosic fillers offers undeniable advantages, such as waste management of lignocellulosic and polypropylene byproducts, reduced wood demand, and the potential biodegradability of the obtained composites. However, there is a need for further optimization of manufacturing processes and material composition to enhance the material performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural fiber-reinforced composites are composite materials composed of natural fibers, such as plant fibers and synthetic biopolymers. These environmentally friendly composites are biodegradable, renewable, cheap, lightweight, and low-density, attracting attention as eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic fiber-reinforced composites. In this study, natural fiber-reinforced polymer foam core layered composites were produced for the automotive industry. Fabrics woven from goat wool were used as the natural fiber. Polymer foam with expanded polystyrene (EPS) and extruded polystyrene (XPS) structures was used as the core material. During production, fibers were bonded to the upper and lower layers of the core structures using resin. The hand lay-up method was used in production. After resin application, the samples were cured under a heated press for 2 h. After the production was completed, the material was cut according to the standards (10-20-30 Joule), and impact and bending tests were conducted at three different energy levels. The experiments revealed that at 10 J, the material exhibited rebound; at 20 J, it showed resistance to stabbing; and at 30 J, it experienced penetration. While EPS foam demonstrated higher impact resistance in the 10 J test, it was found that XPS foam exhibited better impact resistance and absorption capabilities in the 20 J and 30 J tests. Due to the open and semi-closed cell structure of EPS foams and the closed cell structure of XPS foams, it has been concluded that XPS foams exhibit higher impact resistance and better energy absorption properties [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the global pursuit of using sustainable component materials, reinforcement materials derived from agricultural straw waste have attracted widespread attention to develop polymer composites. However, the polar and hydrophilic properties of straw fibers limit their interfacial adhesion behavior, which leads to poor physico‐mechanical and tribological properties of the resulting polymer composites. In this work, cotton straw fibers (CSFs) were derived from agricultural cotton straw wastes, and then were treated with sodium hydroxide solutions of different concentrations (0–7 wt.%). Physical and mechanical properties were analyzed and tribological properties of the developed CSF reinforced polymer composites were investigated systematically. The experiment results indicated that the incorporation of treated‐CSFs in the polymer composite had less effect on the density, whereas it significantly enhanced the water absorption, impact strength and tribological properties. The worn surface morphology analysis revealed that the addition of the treated‐CSFs is conducive to the formation of the contact plateaus, which is in turn beneficial in improving the wear resistance of the treated‐CSF reinforced polymer composites. Overall, the developed polymer composites reinforced with the treated‐CSFs have shown better physico‐mechanical and tribological properties. The present work confirms the possibility of using agricultural corn straw waste as reinforcement fibers, and then paves the path for the development of future commercial plant fiber reinforced polymer composites. Highlights: The usability of cotton straw waste as a reinforcement in polymer composite was investigated.The physico‐mechanical and tribological properties of the polymer composites were evaluated.The alkali‐treated cotton straw fibres were more effective in improving the impact resistance and tribological properties.Use of cotton straw waste in the polymer composite reduced its impact on the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe use of vegetable fibers in concrete has gained attention for enhancing material properties and promoting sustainable construction. This study evaluates the effects of three vegetable fibers—palm, luffa, and straw—on the mechanical properties of concrete, focusing on compressive, tensile, and flexural strengths. The experimental program varied the fiber types, lengths, and volume fractions in concrete samples. Results revealed that incorporating 1% palm fibers increased compressive strength by 1.6%, tensile strength by 2.7%, and flexural strength by 0.8% compared to plain concrete. Palm fibers cured in non-saline water exhibited the most notable improvements. In contrast, adding 1% luffa fibers resulted in approximately 10% increase in compressive strength but caused reductions in flexural (5.3%) and tensile (6%) strengths. Excessive fiber content adversely affected strength due to increased moisture absorption and air content. A generalized self-consistent model confirmed the relationship between fiber content and the modulus of elasticity, while morphological analysis highlighted the anisotropic properties of palm fibers, suggesting their potential for optimizing concrete performance. This research underscores the suitability of palm fibers as cost-effective, eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic fibers, contributing to improved mechanical performance and sustainable management of agricultural waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Epiphytic and endophytic fungi are primary decomposers of forest litter due to their complex species composition and metabolic functions. To clarify the community diversity of phyllospheric fungi and to explore nutrient loss and the role of fungal decomposition, we conducted a study on the decomposition of leaf litter during the 1-year decomposition of Larix gmelinii in the cold temperate zone. Methods: Fungal diversity data were characterized via Single Molecule Sequencing (based on the Sequel II Sequencing System) and statistical analyses in R. Results and discussion: Our findings revealed the presence of 11 known fungal phyla and 29 dominant genera in the larch litter of Greater Khingan. Among these, Basidiomycota and Leucosporidium were dominant in the epiphytic environment, while Ascomycota and Exutisphaerella dominated the endophytic environment. In the early periods of decomposition, phyllospheric fungi became the primary colonizers during litter decomposition by adjusting their life strategies to transition to saprophytic or pathogenic metabolic processes. During decomposition, significant differences in alpha diversity were observed between endophytes and epiphytes. Correlation analysis between these fungi and biological factors revealed a strong relationship between cellulose loss in leaves and the return of N, P, and K. This indicated that the combined biological effects of nutrients, aminosugars, and plant fibers strongly explained changes in community structure. Our results also revealed a significant clustering effect between fungi and biological factors, reflecting the important role of phyllospheric functional fungal communities in carbon fluctuations, cellulose decomposition, and the enrichment of P and K in leaf litter. In summary, this study offers insights into ecosystem processes and nutrient cycling within cold temperate forests, with potential applications for understanding global carbon dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary function of plant fibers in reconstituted tobacco is to enhance the physical strength, and it can quite modify their physical properties. This study demonstrated the effect of various plant fibers and their beating degrees on the physical properties of reconstituted tobacco. Tensile index, burst index, uniformity, tensile stiffness orientation, and thermal conductivity coefficient were examined. The result revealed that the mechanical properties of reconstituted tobacco varied according to the type and beating degree of the fibers. The mechanical properties of softwood, cotton, and bast fibers showed an initial increase followed by a decrease with increasing beating degree, while bamboo fiber showed a continuous improvement in mechanical properties proportional to the beating degree. Conversely, hardwood fiber displayed an inverse relationship with its beating degree. Under identical beating conditions, reconstituted tobacco containing softwood fibers showed the greatest improvement in tensile properties, achieving the highest tensile strength, thermal conductivity, and specific heat capacity. In particular, when softwood fibers were beaten to 50 °SR, the physical properties of the reconstituted tobacco peaked, with longitudinal and transverse tensile indices improving by 42.48% and 12.11%, respectively. Additionally, the bursting resistance index increased by 61.93%, and the thermal conductivity coefficient increased by 5.94%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Industrial hemp, as a natural plant fiber, has received increased research attention recently. Potassium fertilization is one of the most important fertilizers for plant stem thickness, but how the formulation of K fertilizer influences stem morphology and stem tensile strength remains unclear. This study aims to examine the influence of K fertilizer sources on industrial hemp stem properties, with a specific focus on the fibers, to evaluate their potential applications as reinforcement material for stabilizing rammed earth in sustainable construction. A field experiment was set up with different K fertilizer types applied as pre-sowing fertilizer in the following doses: K0—control, K1—100 kg ha−1 KCl, and K2—100 kg ha−1 K2SO4. Different K fertilizations did not have significant influence on stem height, which was on average 71.2 cm, nor on stem diameter, which was on average 3.4 mm. Regarding the macronutrient content of the industrial hemp stem (N, P, and K), K fertilization treatment significantly influenced (p < 0.05) their accumulation. The N, P, and K content in the stem within fertilization treatment averaged 0.78, 0.72, and 1.26%, respectively. The average content of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin was not significantly different in relation to K fertilization treatments. In the stem, dry weight cellulose content varied from 57.8% (K0) to 59.0% (K1), hemicellulose from 11.0% (K2) to 11.6% (K0 and K1), and lignin from 10.2% (K2) to 10.5% (K0). The tensile strength and Young's modulus of the industrial hemp stem were non-homogenous within K fertilization treatments. The highest tensile strength (388.52 MPa) and Young's modulus (32.09 GPa) were on K1 treatment. The lowest industrial hemp stem tensile strength was determined at K2 treatment (95.16 MPa), whereas stems in the control treatment had the lowest Young's modulus (21.09 GPa). In the mixtures of hemp fibers with rammed earth, the higher compressive strength was determined on cubic samples than on cylindrical samples. This study contributes to the industrial hemp K fertilization of the newer genotypes, but there has been a lack of research in recent times. Since industrial hemp has great potential in various industry branches, this study also contributes to using fiber extracted from the stem in eco-friendly and renewable forms in mixtures with rammed earth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite their better mechanical qualities, plant fibers are now appreciated enough to be employed as an additional component in composite manufacture rather than synthetic materials. Industries are making efforts to preserve nature's ecological equilibrium in order to avoid catastrophic natural disasters. This study investigated thermal, mechanical, morphological, and moisture‐capture capabilities of Licuala grandis leaf stalk fibers (LGLSFs) reinforced in an unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) matrix biocomposite. Biocomposites were fabricated by compression molding technology, with different weight ratios and sizes. The biocomposite containing 30 wt.% and 5 mm length LGLSF had best mechanical properties, with equal impact (5.4 J/cm2), hardness (70.4 HRRW), flexural (58 MPa), and tensile (64.9 MPa) values. Furthermore, prolonging LGLSF reinforcement to 15 mm increased the bio‐composite specimen's tensile, flexural, hardness, and impact characteristics by 9.09%, 9.65%, 14.8%, and 6.25%, respectively. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) spectra were analyzed to determine the bio‐composite's feasibility for commercial use. The bio‐composite specimen is ideal for usage in vehicle and aviation upholstery due to its sufficient hydrophobicity, lowered density, and heat resistance up to 236 °C, which are accomplished through a sufficient weight ratio of LGLSF and UPR, as well as LGLSF dimensions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The book review in Economic Botany discusses "The Tropical Turn: Agricultural Innovation in the Ancient Middle East and the Mediterranean" by Sureshkumar Muthukumaran. The book explores the spread of South Asian crops to the ancient Middle East and Mediterranean regions, focusing on seven cultivated plants. It delves into the historical, social, and environmental contexts of these crops, offering insights into their impact on various societies. The volume provides a comprehensive examination of the interconnectedness of human civilizations through the exchange of botanical knowledge and resources. [Extracted from the article]

The article "Reconnecting to Japan's Past: Finding Roots through Cosplay and Historical Costume Rental" discusses the trend of dressing up in ancient Japanese clothing from various historical periods. It explores the interest in historical costumes from the Jōmon, Yayoi, Kofun, Asuka, and Nara eras, highlighting the unique characteristics of each period's clothing and hairstyles. The article also delves into the cultural significance of dressing up in ancient costumes, the influence of media representations, and the role of civic boosterism in promoting historical costuming. The author, Laura Miller, provides insights into the motivations behind this trend and its impact on identity and historical awareness. [Extracted from the article]

Highlights Research on the performance design and prediction method of low carbon degradable composite materials is of great significance for realizing energy saving and emission reduction of automobile industry. In this study, plant short fiber reinforced polylactic acid composite (PFRP) was prepared by injection molding method and reinforced with basalt fiber to obtain flax/basalt short fiber hybrid reinforced composite (FBFRP). The mechanical properties of the composites were evaluated by quasi‐static tensile/ bending test and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was observed that addition of basalt fiber further enhances the properties of the composite, and the properties of the composite are the best when the mass fraction of flax and basalt fiber is 30% and 9%. The fiber distribution inside FBFRP was analyzed by micro‐computed tomography (Micro‐CT) technology. Based on the real spatial characteristics of the fibers inside the materials, a microcosmic representative volume element (RVE) model of hybrid composites was established by writing a random adsorption algorithm script in Python. By defining the damage constitutive of each component, the macroscopic equivalent mechanical property parameters were obtained, and the influence of the interface thickness on the simulation results was studied. On this basis, the tensile and bending failure simulation of macro‐composite materials is carried out, and the mechanical properties prediction of hybrid fiber composites based on multi‐scale method is successfully realized. Using Micro‐CT technique and random adsorption algorithm, the RVE model based on the real fiber distribution inside the composite was obtained. Through cross‐scale simulation, the macroscopic equivalent mechanical properties of the composite were obtained. The effect of fiber‐matrix interface thickness on the simulation results is considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulching as a traditional field management technique, boasts the benefits of improving soil ecology and maintaining soil temperature and moisture. The biodegradable plant fiber mulch produced from crop straw boasts abundant raw material sources and has similar temperature and moisture retention effects to plastic mulch, which would have no phenomenon of soil hardening, and compromised crop cultivation and sowing quality. The quality of straw fiber obtained through physical methods cannot meet the demand of mulch film. To improve the mechanical properties of straw fiber mulch film and reduce pulping time, this study introduces a method of preparing straw fiber mulch raw materials through biological pretreatment combined with extrusion-explosion. To explore the optimal combination of process parameters for this technology, three-factor and five- level quadratic orthogonal central composite rotatable design experimental approach was employed, with pretreatment time, spindle speed, and Clearance of mould head selected as the experimental factors, and tensile index, pulping time, and fiber aspect ratio as performance indicators. The results showed that pretreatment time and spindle speed, spindle speed and clearance of mould head had very significant effects on the tensile index (P < 0.01) Pretreatment time and clearance of mould head have significant effect on tensile index (P < 0.05) Pretreatment time and spindle speed, pretreatment time and clearance of mould head have significant effect on pulping time (P < 0.05) Spindle speed and pretreatment time had very significant effect (P < 0.01) on pulping time, the spindle speed and clearance of mould head has no significant effect on fiber aspect ratio (P > 0.05) . Pretreatment time and spindle speed have very significant effect on fiber aspect ratio (P < 0.01) Pretreatment time and clearance of mould head have significant effect on fiber aspect ratio (P < 0.05) . The optimal combination of process parameters was determined to be 10 days of pretreatment, a spindle speed of 120 r/min, and a Clearance of mould head of 3 mm. The resulting fiber mulch exhibited a tensile index of 9.57 N·m/g, a pulping time of 81.4 minutes, and a fiber aspect ratio of 10.97, with a relative error not exceeding 5% compared to the theoretical optimal values. The rice straw fiber-based mulch prepared under these conditions meets the technical requirements for crop cultivation in both irrigated and dry fields. This study provides a basis and technical support for the production of fully biodegradable plant fiber mulch film from rice straw. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing trend in the construction industry to adopt environmentally friendly practices, and innovative materials are becoming increasingly popular. Within the scope of this paper, the potential of natural fiber-reinforced cement composites (NFRCs) as an environmentally friendly building material is examined. This work introduces plant fiber aspects such as micromorphology, primary components, physical and mechanical properties, chemical components, thermal properties, and degradation mechanisms in cement composites. It explores how plant fibers affect concrete's mechanical performance, durability, and thermal qualities. It is responsible for increasing permeability and decreasing durability in concrete material because plant fibers have porosity and a weak interface. The purpose of this in-depth investigation is to investigate the features, sustainability (social, environmental, and economical) performance, and applications of NFRCs, with a particular focus on environmentally responsible innovation and potential future applications. The exhaustive study also addresses the difficulties associated with attaining the highest possible level of compatibility between fibers and matrixes. The physical and chemical treatments of natural fibers in cement components give more resistance to aging by reducing water absorption and increasing roughness at the surface. It is also possible to reduce the effect of alkalinity of the cement mixture through optimization of the binder component and curing regimes, which retard the breakdown of natural fibers. The purpose of this study is to present a summary of existing research, with a particular emphasis on the benefits, drawbacks, and prospective ways in which NFRCs could potentially improve throughout the construction industry in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shortage of superior grade wood fibers is a prime problem faced by Indian pulp and paper industries. As a result, the pulp and paper industry find it difficult to withstand the competition in the market, which had grown extremely competitive. In order to increase the utilization of non-wood fibers resources in the production of high quality eco-friendly papers, dhaincha, a non-wood fiber resource has potential industrial application. In this research, pulp and paper were developed from Sesbania aculeata stem using kraft pulping followed by bleaching. Optimization of conditions for pulping was carried out by Response Surface Methodology. The relationship between three variables and three responses were studied using Box–Behnken experimental design. The developed pulp was evaluated for kappa number, brightness index, viscosity, FTIR and TGA. Then paper was developed by using optimized pulp and evaluated for physical properties. The statistical analysis (ANOVA) was carried out in order to establish the relationship between the concentration of NaOH, Na2S, treatment time and temperature with kappa number, brightness index and viscosity. The physical properties of pulp and developed handmade paper highlights the sustainable use of dhaincha plant in pulp and paper industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existence of vegetation of open environments with a predominance of grass–forb meadow associations and the participation of pine–oak forests was reconstructed on the basis of study of microphytofossils from the Lower Pleistocene deposits of the Taurida cave in central Crimea. These results are consistent with data on the composition of land vertebrates from the Taurida locality. The studied spectrum demonstrates similarity with the spore–pollen assemblage of the Berezan horizon of Ukraine with a maximum age of about 1.8 Ma. Based on the abundance of trichomes and plant fibers similar to those of Ficus carica Linnaeus, 1753 in the coprolites, it is assumed that the extinct hyenas Pachycrocuta brevirostris (Gervais, 1850) ate fig fruits in certain seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fused deposition molding (FDM) is a commonly used 3D printing method, and polylactic acid (PLA) has become one of the most important raw materials for this technology due to its excellent warping resistance. However, its mechanical properties are insufficient. Polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) is characterized by high toughness and low rigidity, which can complement the performance of PLA. The biodegradable polymers produced by blending the two have thus been used to replace petroleum-based plastics in recent years, but the high cost of the blends has limited their wide applications. Introducing plant fibers into the blends can not only maintain biodegradability and improve the overall performance of the plastics but also reduce their costs greatly. In this study, the PBAT/PLA blends with a mass ratio of 70/30 were selected and mixed with wood flour (WF) to prepare ternary composites using a FDM 3D printing technique. The effects of WF dosage on the mechanical properties, thermal properties, surface wettability, and melt flowability of the composites were investigated. The results showed that the proper amount of WF could improve the tensile and flexural moduli of the composites, as well as the crystallinity and hydrophobicity of the printed specimens increased with the content of WF, while the melt flow rate decreased gradually. Compared to PBAT/PLA blends, WF/PBAT/PLA composites are less costly, and the composite containing 20 wt.% WF has the best comprehensive performance, showing great potential as raw material for FDM 3D printing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The incompatibility of natural fibers with polymer matrices is one of the key obstacles restricting their use in polymer composites. The interfacial connection between the fibers and the matrix was weak resulting in a lack of mechanical properties in the composites. Chemical treatments are often used to change the surface features of plant fibers, yet these treatments have significant drawbacks such as using substantial amounts of liquid and chemicals. Plasma modification has recently become very popular as a viable option as it is easy, dry, ecologically friendly, time-saving and reduces energy consumption. This paper aims to explore plasma treatment for improving the surface adhesion characteristics of sisal fibers (SFs) without compromising the mechanical attributes of the fiber. Design/methodology/approach: A cold glow discharge plasma (CGDP) modification using N2 gas at varied power densities of 80 W and 120 W for 0.5 h was conducted to improve the surface morphology and interfacial compatibility of SF. The mechanical characteristics of unmodified and CGDP-modified SF-reinforced epoxy composite (SFREC) were examined as per the American Society for Testing and Materials standards. Findings: The cold glow discharge nitrogen plasma treatment of SF at 120 W (30 min) enhanced the SFREC by nearly 122.75% superior interlaminar shear strength, 71.09% greater flexural strength, 84.22% higher tensile strength and 109.74% higher elongation. The combination of improved surface roughness and more effective lignocellulosic exposure has been responsible for the increase in the mechanical characteristics of treated composites. The development of hydrophobicity in the SF had been induced by CGDP N2 modification and enhanced the size of crystals and crystalline structure by removing some unwanted constituents of the SF and etching the smooth lignin-rich surface layer of the SF particularly revealed via FTIR and XRD. Research limitations/implications: Chemical and physical treatments have been identified as the most efficient ways of treating the fiber surface. However, the huge amounts of liquids and chemicals needed in chemical methods and their exorbitant performance in terms of energy expenditure have limited their applicability in the past decades. The use of appropriate cohesion in addition to stimulating the biopolymer texture without changing its bulk polymer properties leads to the formation and establishment of plasma surface treatments that offer a unified, repeatable, cost-effective and environmentally benign replacement. Originality/value: The authors are sure that this technology will be adopted by the polymer industry, aerospace, automotive and related sectors in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a degradable polymer material, polybutylene succinate (PBS) has the disadvantages of high cost, slow crystallization rate, and low strength modulus. Reinforcing modification with plant fibers is a popular method. A unique three-dimensional network structure was found in luffa fiber (LF). Compared to other plant fibers, this fiber has excellent mechanical strength due to its unique three-dimensional structure. Its structure allows it to maintain the integrity of the reinforcement phase in the polymer aggregate, overcoming the dispersion and defects of short fiber reinforcement. Herein, the LF was treated with alkali treatment and silanated with three coupling agents and pre-impregnation methods to improve interfacial properties with the PBS matrix. Then it was laminated with polybutylene succinate to prepare a PBS/LF composite board with three layers of LF. The performance of the composite material using the KH550 coupling agent was improved the most. The tensile strength and modulus of the material were increased by 24.9% and 82.9%, respectively, the flexural strength and modulus were increased by 21.7% and 18.5%, and the impact strength was increased by 12.5%. The water absorption weight gain rate is also the lowest, about 3.5%. For the LF-reinforced PBS, the preparation method is simple, and the reinforcement effect is better, that the cost was effectively reduced, and the application field of the PBS green material was expanded. A new possibility for the development of green degradable polymer composites was provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable hybrid composites, made of two different natural plant fiber types, are increasingly being attracted by composite researchers, for their cost effectiveness and ability to control mechanical performances through varying weight ratios of different fibers. In contrast, their lower mechanical properties are reported in the literature, because of strength variations of different fiber types and an improper fiber‐matrix stress distribution. Therefore, it is aimed to develop sustainable hybrid composites from two dry fiber preforms—woven fabric and short fiber preform—originated from same fiber type (jute). A highly packed short fiber preform is used as the core layer, while woven fabrics (plain/twill–rib/twill–diamond) are used in the skin layers for producing sandwiched hybrid jute composites. Mechanical tests and scanning electron microscopy images show that hybridized plain fabric/short fiber preform composites have better mechanical properties (≈58 MPa tensile strength/≈117 MPa flexural strength/≈112.12 kJm−2 impact strength with an ≈487.4% improvement) compared to other fabric structures hybrid/nonhybrid composites. This enhancement is related to the interlocking of short fibers with long plain fabric leading to a strong fiber‐matrix interfacial bonding. Thus, this developed hybrid composites, can be applied in many semi‐structural applications, wherein composites' low cost and mechanical performances are primary concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sandwich panels are widely used in the naval and aerospace industries to withstand the normal tensile, compressive, and shear stresses associated with bending. The faces of sandwich composites are usually made of metals such as aluminum and, in some studies with composites, using a polymeric matrix, but there are no studies in the literature using a castor oil polyurethane matrix. The core of the panel must keep the faces apart and be rigid perpendicular to them. To begin the work, a study was carried out on the influence of alkaline treatment on sisal fibers to increase the fibers' adhesion to castor oil polyurethane. There are no relevant studies worldwide on the use of this resin and the adhesion of vegetable fibers to this polyurethane. In this work, a study was carried out through a three-point bending test of sandwich panels using faces of composite material with sisal fibers subjected to an alkaline treatment of 10% by weight of sodium hydroxide and an immersion time of 4 h in the dissolution, which was the best chemical treatment obtained initially in a castor oil polyurethane matrix. The honeycomb cores were made by 3D printer and in this study two different printing filament materials, PETG and PLA, and two different core heights were compared. As a result of a traction test, it was observed that sisal fibers with chemical treatment in a castor oil polyurethane matrix can be used in composites, although the stress levels obtained are 50% lower than the stresses obtained in other matrixes such as epoxy resin. The combination of sisal faces in a castor oil polyurethane matrix and honeycomb cores made in a 3D printer showed good properties, which allows the use of renewable, sustainable and less aggressive materials for the environment. In all tests, PETG was 21% to 32% stronger than PLA. Although there was no rupture in the test specimens, the PETG cores deformed 0.5% to 3.6% less than PLA. The composites with PLA were lighter, because the core density was 13.8% lower than the PETG cores. Increasing the height of the honeycomb increased its strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating global population and subsequent demand for agricultural products have led to a surge in agricultural waste generation, posing significant disposal challenges. Conventional disposal methods such as burning and dumping not only harm the environment but also jeopardize human health and safety. Recognizing the urgent need for sustainable waste management, researchers have increasingly focused on repurposing agricultural plant waste as a valuable resource. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the potential of agricultural plant waste in wealth creation and sustainable development. It highlights the detrimental impacts of current disposal methods and emphasizes the necessity for alternative approaches. By analyzing the physical, mechanical, and chemical properties of plant fibers, particularly cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, this review underscores their suitability for diverse applications. Moreover, it explores the emerging trend of utilizing pineapple leaf fiber, a sustainable and lightweight material, in structural applications, such as UAV construction. With its exceptional mechanical properties and biodegradability, pineapple leaf fiber holds promise as a viable alternative to traditional materials, contributing to a more sustainable future. In conclusion, this review advocates for a paradigm shift towards embracing agricultural plant waste as a valuable asset for economic prosperity and environmental sustainability. It underscores the importance of continued research and technological advancements to unlock the full potential of agricultural waste in fostering a circular economy and driving sustainable development globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of China Pulp & Paper is the property of China Pulp & Paper Magazines Publisher and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of China Pulp & Paper is the property of China Pulp & Paper Magazines Publisher and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Thermal oxidative stabilized (TOS) fibers with different pre-oxidation degrees were prepared by using constant draft polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers under air atmosphere according to the pre-oxidation degree obtained from the relative cyclization rate determined by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The effect of pre-oxidation degree on the chemical and crystal structures, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the resultant TOS fibers were investigated. The results indicated that the conjugated carbonyl groups began to form at a pre-oxidation degree greater than 54. 7 % and tended to increase gradually. The TOS fibers exhibited new diffuse peaks and ordered structures at a pre-oxidation degree of 83. 2 %, and their cross section presented an obvious radial non-uniform structure, so-called "skin-core structure" along with a decrease in the elongation at break. Therefore, the TOS fibers obtained a cyclization degree of 72 %, thus resulting in fewer structural defects and better performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of epoxy composites with different loadings of 1-oxo-4-hydroxymethyl-2,6,7-trioxa-l-phosphabicyclo [2. 2. 2] octane (PEPA) and ammonium polyphosphate (APP) and a fixed loading of montmorillonite (MMT) were prepared to enhance their flame-retardancy. The synergistic effect of APP and PEPA on the flame-retardant properties of the epoxy composites was evaluated by vertical burning experiment, limiting oxygen index, and cone calorimetry. A smoke density test was also carried out to demonstrate the collaborative smoke suppression effect of APP and PEPA. The experimental results indicated that when 15 wt% of APP/PEPA/MMT at a mass ratio 69/25/6 was incorporated into epoxy resin, the resultant epoxy composite obtained an improvement in limiting oxygen index up to 31. 5 % and reached the UL94 V-0 rating in the vertical burning test. Moreover, its peak heat release rate (HRR) and total smoke release (TSR) decreased by 73. 6 % and 70 %, respectively. Based on the HRR, peak HRR, and TSR results obtained from cone calorimetric measurements, PEPA, APP, and their compounds can generate good flame-retardant effectiveness in both gas phase and condensed phase. To understand the synergistic mechanisms about the flame-retardant and smoke suppression effects deeply, thermal gravimetric analysis coupled with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, visual observation, and scanning electron microscopy were conducted to characterize the gas and condensed phases of epoxy composites containing APP and PEPA flame retardants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural plant fibers are hierarchical structures with multi-level microstructures. With advances in composite material science, these fibers have been widely used in various polymer products. Therefore, it is crucial to quantitatively understand the relationship between their microstructures and mechanical behavior. This paper utilizes the Mori-Tanaka micromechanics model, viscoelasticity theory, and Zakian's inversion method to study the impact of plant fiber microstructure on the viscoelastic behavior of multiscale structures. At the microscopic scale, the macromolecular polymer (matrix) and cellulose (fiber) are first homogenized. The second homogenization involves the cell wall microstructure, and the third homogenization considers the porosity of the cell wall and lumen to predict the effective modulus of fiber bundles. By applying the principle of elasticviscoelastic correspondence, the viscoelastic mechanical parameters of plant fibers are calculated. The study examines the effects of cellulose crystallinity and lumen porosity on the structural stiffness and viscoelastic properties of fibers, identifying these factors as key influences on the mechanical behavior of plant fibers. Given their significant economic potential, the feasibility of using tobacco plant fibers as bio-based materials is also explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioplastic is a biodegradable and environmentally friendly material because it uses natural materials in the form of plant fibers. The plants with high fiber content can be converted to cellulose acetate as a raw material for bioplastics. Durian skin is a biomass waste that has the potential to be a raw material for bioplastics. Cellulosebased bioplastics are generally made by adding adhesives, plasticizers, and fillers. In this study, the manufacture of bioplastics used the cellulose acetate from durian skin with variations of plasticizer concentration, plasticizer type, starch adhesive, and chitosan. Glycerol and sorbitol were used as plasticizers with variations in concentration of 20%, 30%, and 40%. The mass ratio of cellulose and starch used was 1.5:1. Bioplastics were produced by adding chitosan, starch, and variations of plasticizers in each concentration which were achieved varying values in tensile strength, water absorption, density values, elongation values, Young's modulus, degradability, and different bioplastic surface structures. The best bioplastic result is bioplastic with 20% sorbitol concentration for a density of 0.852 g/mL, water absorption of 45.99%, tensile strength of 613.12 Kpa, elongation of 2.35%, and Young's modulus of 26090.21 Kpa. In addition, the degradation time without landfill has met the Indonesian National Standard (INS) for 45 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of China Rubber Industry is the property of Editorial Office of China Rubber Industry and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Highlights Continuous plant yarn‐reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) composites were produced through in situ 3D printing, focusing on how plant fiber attributes influence the crystallization, mechanical, and rheological properties of the printed composites. The aim of this study was to assess the viability of plant fibers as substitutes for synthetic ones in engineering additive manufacturing. Plant fibers promoted the crystallization of PLA due to their shear induction and nucleation agent induction effects. The inherent triangular void defect during printing decreased with increasing plant fiber‐volume fraction. Rheological analysis revealed a transition to more elastic behavior post‐fiber addition, indicating solid‐like properties. The tensile strength of flax fiber‐yarn/PLA composite (volume fraction of 50.79%) was 342.37% higher than that of pure PLA, with a 22.2% lower density than pure PLA. Flax fiber demonstrated a superior reinforcement effect than carbon fiber in compressive strength for 3D printed honeycomb sheets with lower energy consumption and footprint. Optimizing fiber characteristics holds promise for high‐performance 3D‐printed natural fiber composites, particularly in vehicle applications. Plant fiber/polylactic acid (PLA) composites were in situ printed with a volume fraction of 50.79%. Plant fibers promoted the crystallization of PLA during the printing process. The tensile strength of flax fiber/PLA increased by 342.3% with a 22.2% lower density than PLA. Flax fiber showed a better reinforcement than carbon fiber in a compressive test of printed honeycomb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document is a reply to a comment regarding research on the Magallanes Fault System (MFS) in Tierra del Fuego, Patagonia. The authors address criticisms of their work and discuss overlapping results with another study on fault slip rates in Argentina. They highlight the importance of fieldwork, drone photography, and data integration in determining fault slip rates. The study emphasizes the need for further research on other active faults in the MFS and the implications for seismic hazard and neotectonics. [Extracted from the article]

Research on the sustainable production of building materials has been increasing from time to time. The construction industry is one of the sectors that leads to the depletion of significant amounts of nonrenewable resources, such as minerals. The ecosystem is deteriorated, and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are enormous in the environment due to the use of fossil fuel-based materials. The purpose of this paper is to review the use of plant fibers (hereafter NF) for reinforcement in cementitious concrete. Concrete, plant fibers, their chemical nature, and characteristics are highlighted in an overview. The most important issues in NF-concrete compatibility were discussed, which could provide research opportunities. Modification of NFs and the cement matrix are examined as methods for improving compatibility and degradation. Moreover, the properties and longevity of cementitious materials that are reinforced with natural fibers are also examined. Finally, the review emphasizes the significant research gaps and future research prospects identified in the reviewed papers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]