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Recently, composite filament development for three-dimensional printing has emerged and is used for numerous applications. The present research work develops neat polylactic acid and Almond Shell Particles reinforced polylactic acid bio-composites for three-dimensional printing and investigates the effects of printing orientation, including 0°, 45° and 90° orientation, on the tribological and mechanical behaviours of three-dimensional printed materials. The novel almond shell particles reinforced polylactic acid filaments are extruded by the filament extrusion method with the presence of 10% almond shell particles in the polylactic acid matrix, and the samples are three-dimensional printed by the fused filament fabrication technique. Mechanical characteristics such as tensile, flexural, compressive strength, and shore hardness are evaluated with respect to various three-dimensional printing orientations. The surface quality of the three-dimensional printed polylactic acid composite samples is analysed with respect to length and diameter deviation. Length accuracy of the 90° oriented polylactic acid and almond shell particles reinforced polylactic acid bio-composite samples exploits a better accuracy of 99.12% and 98.81%, respectively. It is shown that adding almond shell particles to the polylactic acid matrix decreases the flexural and tensile strength. Among the printing orientations, 0° flat samples result in the maximum tensile strength of 36 and 28 MPa for the neat polylactic acid and almond shell particles reinforced polylactic acid composites, respectively. The lowest contact angle of 54° is observed on the almond shell particles reinforced polylactic acid bio-composites three-dimensional printed with a 90° orientation. The highest contact angle value of 94° is observed on the neat polylactic acid three-dimensional printed with a 0° printing orientation. A tribological study is carried out under dry conditions on the pin-on-disc tribometer by varying the sliding speed (1, 2, and 3 m/s) and load (10, 20, and 30 N). The result shows that the lowest coefficient of friction of 0.22 is achieved for the almond shell particles reinforced polylactic acid bio-composite samples with a 0° printing orientation under a sliding load of 10 N. These kinds of newly developed compostable materials can be used for developing disposable orthotic foot appliances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global manufacturing of high-performance manufactured products made from natural resources is increasing as a result of renewable and environmental concerns. This study investigated the mechanical and morphological properties of PLA and kenaf short fiber (3–4 mm). The kenaf fibers were treated with different chemical concentrations (10% and 20%) before being used to make composites with an injection molding machine. SEM analysis was performed on the treated and mechanically tested bio-composites. Mechanical analysis of the generated composites was performed utilizing tensile, flexural, and impact tests to investigate the influence of treatment on interfacial adhesion. Fibers treated with a 20% concentration of sodium acetate provided the most desirable tensile and flexural characteristics in the composites. Apart from impact strength, chemical treatment has a significant impact on the properties of green composites. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were used to examine the crystallinity and infrared spectra of bio-composites. The chemical treatment of natural fiber with sodium acetate is an environmentally friendly approach for producing long-lasting PLA-based bio-composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Applying the response surface methodology, this work aims to examine the flexural characteristics of bio composites composed of polypropylene (PP)/sisal fiber (Sisal)/polypropylene-grafted maleic anhydride (PMA). To predict the modulus behavior and flexural strength of the natural fiber bio-composite, mathematical models have been developed as a function of Sisal load, PMA, and fiber length compatibilizer content. These models are based on a three-factor, three-level Box-Behnken design (BBD), a subset of the response surface methodology (RSM). Sisal fiber (15–35 wt%), fiber length (4–12 mm), and PMA (2–6% wt%) were the three levels that were selected for the factors that were taken into consideration. The utilize of contour plots and response surface methodology allowed for the determination of optimal compositions with respect to improved flexural properties. According to the results produced from the design expert software, the flexural modulus (FM) is 1625.09 MPa and the ideal flexural strength (FS) is 46.3954 MPa. A high degree of agreement between the experimental data and the model's predictions was indicated by the R2 values and normal probability maps. The specimens were then examined utilizing scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to determine their morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to develop a cutting-edge methodology to enhance compatibility between natural fiber and polymeric matrix in bio-composites. To achieve this, an innovative approach for grafting an azide functional group (Az) onto the surface of polypropylene (PP) was successfully developed and confirmed. The Az group contributed to enhancing the interfacial interaction between the polymer matrix and the bio-filler through chemical crosslinking. Crosslinking is achieved through an innovative and efficient chemical process known as click chemistry. In particular, a click reaction is established between the functionalized PP with an azide group and functionalized natural filler with an alkyne group. The effectiveness of the proposed technique is verified using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The resulting bio-composite exhibits higher mechanical properties, better thermal stability, and improved biocompatibility compared to conventional materials. Specifically, the maximum tensile strength was achieved at 10% DPP loading, showing a 22% increase over the base material (DPP/PP) and a 7% increase over neat PP. A more significant enhancement was observed in Young's modulus results across all samples. Therefore, the established method is beneficial for polymer modification, promoting the production of high-performance bio-composite materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basaltic pumice has a black or gray appearance due to its iron and magnesium-rich komatiitic tuff composition. Pumice's porous structure allows the production of various polymer-based biocomposite materials for biomedical applications. This study developed bio-composite samples by incorporating basaltic pumice powder at 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 percent concentrations into an elastomeric polyurethane (EPU) matrix. The surface and elemental structure of basaltic pumice particles were investigated using the SEM/energy diffraction X-ray technique. The physical, mechanical, thermal, melt-flow, and morphological properties of bio-composites were studied experimentally. Findings showed a rise in Shore hardness and tensile modulus parameters and declined tensile elongation. According to the thermal study, introducing basaltic pumice resulted in a modest drop in the thermal stability of the EPU and an improvement in stability against mechanical deformations. Pumice loadings raised the melt flow and extrusion torque values of the EPU. The observation of the homogeneously distributed pumice particles in the EPU matrix is used as visual evidence to investigate the highest performance among the composites in the EPU sample with the lowest loading rate of 7.5% pumice. Overall, BP is effective as a reinforcing agent in EPU-based biocomposites at low additive percentages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polystyrene is renowned for its excellent thermal insulation due to its closed-cell structure that traps air and reduces heat conduction. This study aims to develop sustainable, energy-efficient building materials by enhancing the thermal and mechanical properties of plaster–polystyrene bio-composites. By incorporating varying amounts of polystyrene (5% to 25%) into plaster, our research investigates changes in thermal conductivity, thermal resistance, and mechanical properties such as Young's modulus and maximum stress. Meticulous preparation of composite samples ensures consistency, with thermal and mechanical properties assessed using a thermal chamber and four-point bending and tensile tests. The results show that increasing the polystyrene content significantly improved thermal insulation and stiffness, though maximum stress decreased, indicating a trade-off between insulation and mechanical strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is utilised for several purposes, including as a biomedical material for artificial joint replacement. This study looks at the effects of adding nanosized hydroxyapatite (HAP), nanosized titanium dioxide (TiO2), carbon fibre (CF), and Kevlar fibre (KF) to bone plate fixation in the femur bone prosthesis. Because of the ease with which they could be processed, their low cost, remarkable mechanical properties, good cell interaction, different amounts of n-HAP and n-TiO2 (1.5, 2.5, 3.5, and 4.5 wt%), and a fixed amount of CF and KF (5 wt%) were dispersed in UHMWPE-based biocomposites. The UHMWPE/n-HAP and UHMWPE/n-TiO2 particulate biocomposites were prepared by using the dispersing technique followed by hot pressing moulding, then mechanical testing was performed, including flexural, maximum shear stress, and impact tests. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is used to observe reinforcement and matrix fractures. Biocomposites with n-HA/Carbon fibre hybrid biocomposites showed better results concerning specific mechanical strength, as well as flexural strength, max. shear and impact energy. The composites show an increase in flexural strength, flexural modulus, impact strength, and max. shear stress by 44%, 32.49%, 120.7%, and 182.6% respectively concerning neat UHMWPE. This review focuses on the benefits of UHMWPE particulate biocomposites in a variety of weight proportions and hybrid biocomposites, which have not yet been tested as a superior alternative for the creation of bone plate fixation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural fiber composites have gained increasing attention due to sustainability considerations. One often neglected aspect is the potential for the mechanical recycling of such materials. In this work, we compounded injection-molded polypropylene (PP) and polylactic acid (PLA) short cellulose fiber composites with fiber shares up to 40 percent by weight. Both matrix materials were reinforced by the addition of the fibers. We investigated a trifold full recycling process, where we subjected the materials produced in the first place to compounding, injection molding, testing, and shredding, and then repeated the process. Although the materials' properties assigned to degradation were found to decrease with progressive recycling, attractive mechanical properties could be preserved even after the third reprocessing cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to obtain the mechanical properties of the resulting bio-composite material. Mechanical properties of bio-composite materials are greatly influenced by the fiber content and molding process parameters used. We used kenaf fiber as reinforcement and epoxy resin as a binder. Molding parameters such as molding time, molding pressure, and molding temperature were implemented to get the best bio-composite material. We used two types of kenaf fibers at content of 20 wt.%, which consisted of long fiber (first filler) and short fiber (second filler) as reinforcement, at compositions of 10:10, 12.5:7.5, 15:5, and 17.5:2.5 based on weight percentage (wt.%), respectively. Our results showed that the fiber content and molding process parameters used had a significant effect on the resulting mechanical properties. The highest flexural strength value was obtained at a fiber content of 5 wt.%, amounting to 44.77 MPa. By applying the molding process parameters, the flexural strength value obtained was successfully increased up to 58 MPa at a molding pressure of 270 kg/cm2. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) results showed that the fiber content of 5 wt.% could be distributed well throughout the matrix, as well as increasing the molding pressure successfully reducing the voids formed during the molding process of the resulting bio-composite material.

Polystyrene is renowned for its excellent thermal insulation due to its closed-cell structure that traps air and reduces heat conduction. This study aims to develop sustainable, energy-efficient building materials by enhancing the thermal and mechanical properties of plaster–polystyrene bio-composites. By incorporating varying amounts of polystyrene (5% to 25%) into plaster, our research investigates changes in thermal conductivity, thermal resistance, and mechanical properties such as Young’s modulus and maximum stress. Meticulous preparation of composite samples ensures consistency, with thermal and mechanical properties assessed using a thermal chamber and four-point bending and tensile tests. The results show that increasing the polystyrene content significantly improved thermal insulation and stiffness, though maximum stress decreased, indicating a trade-off between insulation and mechanical strength.

In order to lessen carbon emissions, preserve natural resources, and enhance the planet’s sustainability for future generations, environmentally friendly and sustainable composites offer a promising solution that combines technological innovation and environmental responsibility. Therefore, the current study focused on the development of walnut shell (WS) powder as a natural reinforcing additive for polypropylene (PP) composites as sustainable materials for potential automotive applications. Different particle sizes (150, 212, and 300) μm and particle content (10, 20, 30, and 40 wt%) of WS-reinforced PP composites were investigated. This investigation involved two strategies: The first strategy was to determine the best WS size and loading in the PP matrix. The second strategy involved the development of additives by applying dual treatment methods on the WS: alkaline and microwave as chemical and physical treatment at the same time. Under fixation microwave conditions, different NaOH concentrations of 3, 5, and 7% were applied. The extrusion and hot compression processes at fixed operating conditions were used to combine all dosages of WS/PP composites. The mechanical properties of tensile, flexural, and impact for all the composite dosages for the strategies were studied according to ASTM standards D638, D790, and D256, respectively. To confirm the mechanical properties, the influence of treatment techniques on the WS powder and WS/PP composites was also investigated using physicochemical characterization Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, and X-ray diffraction. Furthermore, the best WS/PP composite was compared with the real automotive part (automobile steering airbag cover [ASAC]) to confirm the mechanical properties of the new WS/PP composites. The results showed that the first strategy obtained a 212 μm, 20 wt% composites that achieved the highest tensile strength, which increased about 1.2 times the tensile strength of the PP matrix. The second strategy showed composite that had treated WS with 7% NaOH (WS7Comp) attained the best mechanical properties throughout other WS/PP composites. In addition, the mechanical properties of the new WS/PP composites were adjusted to the ASAC mechanical properties. Therefore, the improved composites could be a promising alternative material for automotive applications.

Natural fiber composites have gained increasing attention due to sustainability considerations. One often neglected aspect is the potential for the mechanical recycling of such materials. In this work, we compounded injection-molded polypropylene (PP) and polylactic acid (PLA) short cellulose fiber composites with fiber shares up to 40 percent by weight. Both matrix materials were reinforced by the addition of the fibers. We investigated a trifold full recycling process, where we subjected the materials produced in the first place to compounding, injection molding, testing, and shredding, and then repeated the process. Although the materials’ properties assigned to degradation were found to decrease with progressive recycling, attractive mechanical properties could be preserved even after the third reprocessing cycle.

Abstract The demand for eco-friendly materials in automotive components has spurred research into natural fibers as sustainable alternatives for brake pads. This study examines the potential of date palm fibers, particularly the palm frond midrib (PFM), in brake pad composites. The effects of epoxy, PFM, and calcium carbonate on the composites’ mechanical and tribological properties were analyzed. The optimal formulation (25% epoxy, 30% PFM, 35% calcium carbonate) exhibited superior properties, including a hardness of 87 HRB, wear rate of 1.5E-03 mg/mm, and COF of 0.73, surpassing commercial pads. Additionally, an inverse relationship between PFM/calcium carbonate content and compressibility was observed, with increased calcium carbonate enhancing wear resistance. This research underscores the potential of utilizing date palm resources in eco-friendly brake manufacturing, reducing the environmental and health impacts of traditional materials.

We aimed to obtain the mechanical properties of the resulting bio-composite material. Mechanical properties of bio-composite materials are greatly influenced by the fiber content and molding process parameters used. We used kenaf fiber as reinforcement and epoxy resin as a binder. Molding parameters such as molding time, molding pressure, and molding temperature were implemented to get the best bio-composite material. We used two types of kenaf fibers at content of 20 wt.%, which consisted of long fiber (first filler) and short fiber (second filler) as reinforcement, at compositions of 10:10, 12.5:7.5, 15:5, and 17.5:2.5 based on weight percentage (wt.%), respectively. Our results showed that the fiber content and molding process parameters used had a significant effect on the resulting mechanical properties. The highest flexural strength value was obtained at a fiber content of 5 wt.%, amounting to 44.77 MPa. By applying the molding process parameters, the flexural strength value obtained was successfully increased up to 58 MPa at a molding pressure of 270 kg/cm2. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) results showed that the fiber content of 5 wt.% could be distributed well throughout the matrix, as well as increasing the molding pressure successfully reducing the voids formed during the molding process of the resulting bio-composite material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural-fiber-reinforced poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a simple and effective method to improve properties with retaining the fully biodegradability and eco-friendliness. Herein, we prepared the poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA)/poly(d-lactic acid) (PDLA)/bamboo fiber (BF) bio-composites through melt compounding. The stereocomplex PLA (SC-PLA) was formed during the melt blending. The SC-PLA crystals combined with BFs in the PLLA/PDLA/BF bio-composites had synergistic effects that could enhance crystallization rate, rheological and mechanical properties, and heat resistance. The results showed that the SC-PLA crystals drastically increased the nucleation density and accelerated the crystallization process of the bio-composites. The rheological properties of the bio-composites were obviously enhanced by the incorporation of BFs and PDLA. Mechanical properties of the bio-composites were increased compared to neat PLLA. The bio-composite with 10 wt% PDLA showed tensile strength of 72.4 MPa, and Young's modulus of 2855 MPa, which were 9.4% and 18% higher than those of neat PLLA, respectively. Moreover, Vicat softening temperature (VST) of the bio-composites was about 90 °C higher than that of neat PLLA. Overall, this work provides an interesting strategy of fabrication of the BFs reinforced PLA composites with controllable properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for eco-friendly materials in automotive components has spurred research into natural fibers as sustainable alternatives for brake pads. This study examines the potential of date palm fibers, particularly the palm frond midrib (PFM), in brake pad composites. The effects of epoxy, PFM, and calcium carbonate on the composites' mechanical and tribological properties were analyzed. The optimal formulation (25% epoxy, 30% PFM, 35% calcium carbonate) exhibited superior properties, including a hardness of 87 HRB, wear rate of 1.5E-03 mg/mm, and COF of 0.73, surpassing commercial pads. Additionally, an inverse relationship between PFM/calcium carbonate content and compressibility was observed, with increased calcium carbonate enhancing wear resistance. This research underscores the potential of utilizing date palm resources in eco-friendly brake manufacturing, reducing the environmental and health impacts of traditional materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interest in natural fibres and biopolymers for developing bio-composites has greatly increased in recent years, motivated by the need to reduce the environmental impact of traditional synthetic, fossil fuel-derived materials. However, several limitations associated with the use of natural fibres and polymers should be addressed if they are to be seriously considered mainstream fibre reinforcements. These include poor compatibility of natural fibres with polymer matrices, variability, high moisture absorption, and flammability. Various surface treatments have been studied to tackle these drawbacks, such as alkalisation, silane treatment, acetylation, plasma treatment, and polydopamine coating. This review paper considers the classification, properties, and limitations of natural fibres and biopolymers in the context of bio-composite materials. An overview of recent advancements and enhancement strategies to overcome such limitations will also be discussed, with a focus on mechanical performance, moisture absorption behaviour, and flammability of composites. The limitations of natural fibres, biopolymers, and their bio-composites should be carefully addressed to enable the widespread use of bio-composites in various applications, including electronics, automotive, and construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural fibre-based polymer composites have better improvements owing to their thermal and mechanical properties besides environmentally friendly quality. In the present work, biocomposite fabricated at kenaf fibres (KF) loading (30, 40, 50, and 60 mass%) with bio epoxy matrix by the hot compression moulding method, and their thermal and dynamic mechanical characterisation were investigated and examined. This study was conducted to investigate the thermal behaviour through thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and the derivative of thermogravimetric analysis (DTG: the maximum thermal decomposition; Tmax), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and thermomechanical analysis (TMA). The presented findings from TGA and DTG curves showed that the thermal stability improved with increasing the KF loadings, as evidenced by the higher residual mass % and the lower mass loss %. On the other hand, it was found that the biocomposite sample (50 mass% KF) exhibited higher thermal stability up to 558.82 °C. Furthermore, the DMA findings obtained exhibited the greatest value of the storage modulus (E') with the following order of KF bio composite (KF-50 > KF-60 > KF-40 > KF-30). On the other hand, the values of loss modulus (E'') were increased as follows KF-30 > KF-40 > KF-50 > KF-60. However, the results showed that 50 mass% of KF into epoxy biocomposites recorded higher loss modulus value (323.56 MPa) among all other bio composite samples, while the values of tan δ were increased as follows: KF-30 > KF-40 > KF-50 > KF-60. The results obtained for the TMA revealed a better coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) for the sample (KF-50) compared to other samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, numerous researchers have incorporated plant fibers into polymers to alter the thermal and mechanical properties of materials. Grapevines, considered agricultural waste, have led to burdens for farmers and environmental challenges due to their mass production. This study aims to reduce the brittleness of polylactic acid (PLA) by adding polybutylene succinate (PBS) as a toughening agent and employing grapevine fiber (GVF) as a biomass filler. Additionally, the influence of GVF, toughening agents, compatibilizers, and lubrication agents on the tensile strength, heat deflection temperature (HDT), and impact strength of the composites was examined. The findings revealed that the addition of 10% GVF and 5% PBS increased the impact and tensile strengths of PLA from 17.47 J/m and 49.74 MPa to 29.7 J/m and 54.46 MPa, respectively. Moreover, the HDT of the composites exceeded 120 °C when the GVF content was more than 40 wt%. Additionally, the inclusion of a compatibilizer and a lubrication agent enabled the composite containing 30% GVF to achieve tensile and impact strengths of 45.30 MPa and 25.52 J/m, respectively. Consequently, these GVF/PLA green bio-composites not only improve the mechanical and thermal properties of PLA but also promote the reuse of waste grapevines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research delves into an upscale, personalised packaging paradigm employing 3D printing and a bio-composite derived from esteemed rosewood. The study incorporates a design for additive manufacturing, enhancing designers' flexibility, and fostering innovation. To address global sustainability imperatives, including efficiency, energy conservation, a low carbon footprint and ecological compatibility, a premium and sustainable rosewood/polyethersulfone (PES) composite is developed. Laser sintering (LS), renowned for its processing flexibility, is applied for crafting intricate packages. A weight ratio of 1:4 of rosewood to PES is highly suitable for LS processing. The resultant custom carton, embodying natural rosewood aesthetics and fragrance, exhibits commendable mechanical robustness and precision. Tensile and bending strengths reach peaks of 4.880 MPa and 7.870 MPa, respectively, under a 9-W laser power. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis confirms the favourable dispersion of rosewood fibres in LS specimens, providing insights into the microstructure of the composite powder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work involved an experimental study on Abaca fibre bio-composites subjected to a low-velocity impact test at 2.42 m/s to study the effect of fibre weight fraction on the impact performance. The abaca fibre reinforced composite (AFRC) specimens were fabricated with a 10% increment of fibre, varying from W f = 20% to 50%, and their impact properties compared with each other. The impact properties such as force-time history, energy-time history, Coefficient of Restitution (CoR), Energy Loss Percentage (ELP) and Energy Absorption Ratio (EAR) were studied. A significant change in impact force and energy absorption was found as the fibre content increased in the composite. The findings show a good relationship between fibre weight fractions, composite laminate stiffness, impact load and total absorbed energy. The experimental results of the impact test show that the composite specimen with W f = 40% has high impact energy absorption capacity with 4. 09 J 92.94 N and 4.09 J, EAR of 39.94%, CoR of 0.77 and ELP of 40.04%. Low fibre weight fraction composite has shown brittle failure, and high fibre weight fraction has shown ductile behaviour. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) based study was used for post-impact damage analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the impact of hybrid reinforcement from natural and synthetic materials on the wear and mechanical properties of epoxy-based composite materials needed for biomedical applications. Hydroxyapatite was synthesized from eggshells using the hydrothermal method, while wool fiber was obtained from cow hair. The hybrid reinforced composites were developed by blending hydroxyapatite particles and the fibers by hand layup method in an open mold production process, with specified amounts of 3–15 wt % reinforcement. The characterized properties included tensile and flexural strengths, impact energy, wear resistance, and hardness. A scanning electron microscopy study was conducted to analyze the adhesion between the matrix and reinforcements at the interface, providing valuable insights into the overall integrity of the composites. The results showed a significant increase in the properties of the hybrid reinforced composites when compared with the pristine sample. In particular, the 6 wt% reinforced composite enhanced 61.14 % in tensile strength and 160.79 % enhanced 61.14 % in tensile strength and 160.79 % in flexural strength. Thus, the study shows that substituting synthetic fibers with hybrid organic-based reinforcement offers a viable approach for developing sustainable materials with improved mechanical properties suitable for biomedical applications.

PLA/Sisal hybrid composites have been used in cars and technical textile applications. When utilized in composites, 3-D-printed PLA layers can improve performance and homogeneity. The primary goal of this research was to use sisal and 3-D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) layers to develop a sustainable bio-composite. To enhance the bonding of sisal fibres with the PLA matrix, sisal fibres were given a sodium hydroxide treatment. This would improve the mechanical and thermal properties of composites. Sisal fibre (between 4 wt% and 8 wt%), epoxy concentration (between 85 wt% and 90 wt%), and PLA 3-D printing infilling percentage (between 90 wt% and 100 wt%) were the independent parameters. The Taguchi L8 orthogonal array design was used to make the composite samples. The changes in the amounts of PLA infill, epoxy matrix concentration, and sisal fibre content were considered for test sample development. The optimal settings for improving their tensile, flexural, and impact capabilities were determined by analyzing their signal-to-noise ratio (S/N). The PLA/sisal fibre composite showed a remarkable level of mechanical properties in Sample 8, surpassing those of the other samples. To improve mechanical and thermal properties, the appropriate values for sisal fibre composition, PLA infilling percentage, and epoxy concentration percentage were 8 per cent, 95 per cent, and 85 per cent, respectively. After testing, the tensile (293–295.4 Megapascal) (Mpa), impact (2.73–4.84 Mpa), and flexural strength (188.5–270.4 Mpa) results show that the new composite has better mechanical behaviour properties. Additionally, FTIR, SEM, and DSC experiments were run to examine the composite's structural characteristics. Using less volatile epoxy resin, a sustainable 3-D-printed PLA layer and Sisal fibre bio-composite were developed.

The study involves extracting and characterizing fibers from the Typha Domingensis Pers (TDP) plant for the development of bio-composite sheets. The mechanical extraction process yielded 9.3% fibers with a high cellulose content of 70.45 wt%. These fibers also had a thermal stability of 210 °C, making them suitable for withstanding high temperatures during the composite preparation process. Using the hand layup process, three variations of bio-composite sheets were made by mixing sodium alginate and paddy husk powder in different ratios. The sheets were then tested for the basic mechanical, absorbency, and biodegradability properties. The bio-composite sheet blend 2 (BC2), which contained 50% fibers and 50% matrix, showed the greatest tensile and flexural strengths of 242 and 292 MPa, respectively, with lower moisture absorption properties. All three bio-composite sheets exhibited 100% biodegradability. However, bio-composite 1 (BC1) showed significant biodegradability within 60 days. The study revealed that fibers from the invasive Typha domingensis Pers plant can be utilized to create biodegradable composites with desirable properties, making them suitable for use as green planters and other similar agricultural applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodegradable poly(butylene succinate‐co‐adipate)/Poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydoxyvalerate) (PBSA/PHBV) filled with lignocellulosic sidestream/fibers from cowpea, a neglected and underutilized African crop are produced by injection molding and extrusion film casting. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) suggests that the fibers have more affinity and interfacial interaction with PBSA than PHBV. This is shown by a decrease in dampening of PBSA and an increase in dampening of PHBV with fiber addition. In addition, fiber addition results in more homogeneous crystal morphology of PBSA, while resulting in more heterogeneous crystal morphology of PHBV. The tensile strength of injection molded bio‐composites increases with fiber addition due to good interfacial adhesion between the matrix and fibers revealed by scanning electron microscope. In contrast, the tensile strength of bio‐composite films decreases with fiber addition due to the high‐volume fraction of pores in bio‐composite films that act as stress raisers. The stiffness of both injection molded, and bio‐composite films increase with fiber addition, as revealed by an increase in Young's modulus and storage modulus, while the tensile strain decreases. In conclusion, low‐value cowpea sidestream can be used as a filler to produce injection molded bio‐composites and bio‐composite films for potential application as rigid and flexible packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of algae loading on the properties of PBAT/algae bio‐composites produced through a melt extrusion process. The integration of algae as a filler demonstrated a reinforcing effect on the PBAT matrix, leading to an increase in modulus with higher algae loading. Concurrently, the tensile strength and maximum tensile strain of PBAT decreased with an increase in algae content. The thermal stability of PBAT was affected by adding algae, resulting in bio‐composites exhibiting an intermediate behavior compared with their neat precursors. The optimal formulation is achieved with 20 wt.% of algae incorporated into the PBAT matrix. The produced PBAT/algae bio‐composites, demonstrated versatile applications across a wide range of products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As global industries move toward sustainability, the search for alternatives to current petroleum‐based polymer products is becoming necessary. Bio‐based epoxy resins have emerged as a sustainable alternative to petroleum‐based epoxy resins. Commonly, furan derivatives, carbohydrates, cardanol, and lignin are commercially utilized with bio‐based curing agents to form crosslinked structures. In recent years, epoxidized vegetable oils have gathered significant attention as sustainable bio‐based materials for epoxy resin. Vegetable oils have an abundance of unsaturation sites, leading to epoxy‐functionalized molecules. This review provides various materials, synthesis methods, properties, and applications of vegetable oil‐based epoxy resins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio‐based waste from households and industries is a big problem for the world, however, turning it into valuable composite materials can offer a promising approach to deal with it. It involves the conversion of waste from different bio‐based sources such as cellulose waste from farming and forestry leftovers, chitin waste from seafood and mushrooms, and keratin waste from hair, nails, and feathers into natural fibers. These fibers are then effectively mixed with other materials to create composite materials having unique properties, such as high strength and stiffness, good thermal and electrical conductivity, and better barrier properties. Developing these materials is not just good for the environment because it reduces landfill waste and the reliance on non‐renewable resources, but it can also make economic sense for producers. In this review, the basic compounds of natural fibers and the development of composite materials from them are explored and discussed in detail. Furthermore, their chemical and mechanical properties are discussed and summarized. In the final section, a brief overview of the challenges and the future research needed in this fast‐evolving field is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wide range of applications using functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in biomedical applications, such as in biomedicine as well as in biotechnology, have been extensively expanding over the last years. Their potential is tremendous in delivery and targeting systems due to their advantages in biosubstance binding. By applying magnetic materials-based biomaterials to different organic polymers, highly advanced multifunctional bio-composites with high specificity, efficiency, and optimal bioavailability are designed and implemented in various bio-applications. In modern drug delivery, the importance of a successful therapy depends on the proper targeting of loaded bioactive components to specific sites in the body. MNPs are nanocarrier-based systems that are magnetically guided to specific regions using an external magnetic field. Therefore, MNPs are an excellent tool for different biomedical applications, in the form of imaging agents, sensors, drug delivery targets/vehicles, and diagnostic tools in managing disease therapy. A great contribution was made to improve engineering skills in surgical diagnosis, therapy, and treatment, while the advantages and applicability of MNPs have opened up a large scope of studies. This review highlights MNPs and their synthesis strategies, followed by surface functionalization techniques, which makes them promising magnetic biomaterials in biomedicine, with special emphasis on drug delivery. Mechanism of the delivery system with key factors affecting the drug delivery efficiency using MNPs are discussed, considering their toxicity and limitations as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of novel materials is of prime importance in the biomedical areas, especially for bone replacements and dental implants. This study uses finite element modeling of skewed functionally graded bio-composite structures with perforations to examine flexural and eigenfrequency responses. Here, the bio-composite structure comprises Titanium (Ti) and Hydroxyapatite (HAp). Voigt's micromechanical material model via power-law distribution and Representative volume element (RVE) method is utilized to compute the in-homogenous material properties in the thickness direction. The strain field is based on the equivalent single-layer first-order shear deformation theory with five degrees of freedom, and the governing equations are obtained using principle of minimum potential energy. A computer algorithm is developed in a 2D finite element platform using eight-noded quadrilateral elements. The mesh stability of the skewed and perforated structure is confirmed through the smart mesh technique, and the present model's accuracy is demonstrated by comparing it with the available reported results. Numerous examples reveal the significance of material gradation, skewness, aspect ratios, perforations, and support conditions on bio-composite functionally graded structures' flexural and eigenfrequency responses. Furthermore, parametric optimization is conducted to minimize the flexural response and maximize the fundamental frequency by employing the response surface methodology (RSM), followed by determining optimal process parameters and valuable findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass waste, which is biodegradable and vastly underutilized, is generated in huge quantities worldwide. Forestry and agricultural biomass wastes are notable for their wide availability, high yield, biodegradability, and recyclability. The accumulation of these wastes not only occupies valuable land but causes serious environmental pollution, which can ultimately harm human health. Therefore, leveraging scientific technology to convert forestry and agricultural bio-waste into bioenergy and other valuable products is crucial. In this paper, common forestry and agricultural bio-waste such as straw, rice husks, livestock manure, tree branches, sawdust, and bioenergy (bioethanol, biogas, biodiesel, biohydrogen) were selected as keywords, with the theme of green and efficient utilization. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the sources of biomass waste, existing recycling technologies, and the potential of forestry and agricultural bio-waste as material additives and for conversion to biomass energy and other derivatives, along with future recycling prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corn straw-based board has great potential for the protection of forest resources, waste recycling, and sustainable economic development. However, corn stalk-based board has poor mechanical properties due to its short fiber length and poor water resistance because of the presence of numerous hydrophilic hydroxyl functional groups in its structure. Natural mycelium originating from waste Pleurotus ostreatus substrate is a hydrophobic bio-adhesive. In the present study, formaldehyde-free corn stalk/P. ostreatus substrate bio-composites were prepared using the hotpressing technique without the addition of any chemical adhesive. The mechanical properties and water resistance of the prepared biocomposites were excellent. The highest internal bonding strength (IBS) of 2.16 MPa and the minimum thickness swelling (TS) of 18.3% were observed, which are beyond the national standards for particleboard in China. These bio-composites were prepared using a simple, green, and convenient manufacturing method to promote their popularization and application. The method may, therefore, be used as a novel technical measure to resolve the problem of overuse of forestry resources and waste disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Industria Textila is the property of Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Textile si Pielarie 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 Duzce University Journal of Science & Technology is the property of Duzce University Journal of Science & Technology 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.)

Grape seeds (GS), wine lees (WL), and grape pomace (GP) are common winery by-products, used as bio-fillers in this research with two distinct biopolymer matrices—poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) and polybutylene succinate (PBS)—to create fully bio-based composite materials. Each composite included at least 30 v% bio-filler, with a sample reaching 40 v%, as we sought to determine a composition that could be economically and environmentally effective as a substitute for a pure biopolymer matrix. The compounding process employed a twin-screw extruder followed by an injection molding procedure to fabricate the specimens. An acetylation treatment assessed the specimen's efficacy in enhancing matrix–bio-filler affinity, particularly for WL and GS. The fabricated bio-composites underwent an accurate characterization, revealing no alteration in thermal properties after compounding with bio-fillers. Moreover, hygroscopic measurements indicated increased water-affinity in bio-composites compared to neat biopolymer, most significantly with GP, which exhibited a 7-fold increase. Both tensile and dynamic mechanical tests demonstrated that bio-fillers not only preserved, but significantly enhanced, the stiffness of the neat biopolymer across all samples. In this regard, the most promising results were achieved with the PBAT and acetylated GS sample, showing a 162% relative increase in Young's modulus, and the PBS and WL sample, which exhibited the highest absolute values of Young's modulus and storage modulus, even at high temperatures. These findings underscore the scientific importance of exploring the interaction between bio-fillers derived from winery by-products and three different biopolymer matrices, showcasing their potential for sustainable material development, and advancing polymer science and bio-sourced material processing. From a practical standpoint, the study highlighted the tangible benefits of using by-product bio-fillers, including cost savings, waste reduction, and environmental advantages, thus paving the way for greener and more economically viable material production practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the frequency and deflection response analysis of basalt, soy, flax and hybrid pineapple and flax hybrid laminated skew plates are done. The conventional hand-layup method is used to fabricate the different bio-composites-based laminated structures. The uniaxial tension test is conducted in the INSTRON 5967 UTM to determine the elastic properties of the bio-composite laminated structure as per ISO 527-5 standards. The hybrid laminate skew plate is modeled using the first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT) and their elastic properties are obtained from the uniaxial tensile test from which the frequency and deflection of the skew laminated plates are calculated. The eight-noded shell elements (S8R5) with each node having five degrees-of-freedom are deputed in the commercial finite element method (FEM) package ABAQUS to beget the numerical solutions. The damping effect is neglected in the analysis. The accuracy of the proposed model is verified with available literature and found to be in good agreement. Later, the effect of different parameters such as boundary conditions, aspect ratio and skew angles on the natural frequency and deflection of the bio-composites hybrid laminated skew plates are investigated. The obtained results inferred the natural frequencies are decreasing with an increasing aspect ratio of skew plates. The skew angles help to increase the natural frequencies of skew plates. The central deflections are lower for high-skew angled laminated plates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A binary blend of polylactic acid (PLA) and poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), along with algae in their respective composites, were successfully produced using a melt extrusion process. The produced in-house coupling agent was used to enhance interfacial adhesion and algae dispersion. The influence of algae content incorporated into the compatibilized binary blend was thoroughly investigated, focusing on the bio-composites morphology, mechanical, and thermal properties. The addition of PLA-g-MA to the binary blend led to notable improvements in the storage modulus, mechanical strength, and thermal properties of the binary blend. Subsequently, the introduction of algae into the compatibilized binary blend further augmented the storage modulus, with an optimum algae concentration of 10 wt%. However, higher algae content led to decreased tensile strength, elongation at break, and impact resilience. The optimal balance of these properties was achieved at an optimal loading of 5-10 wt% of algae into the compatibilized binary blend. The thermal stability of the bio-composites was notably impacted by algae concentration, with the 10 wt% algae bio-composite exhibiting increased thermal stability. Increasing algae content correlated with decreased bio-composite crystallinity. These findings underscore the potential of optimized biobased algae composites for achieving desired mechanical and thermal properties, contributing to the development of sustainable and eco-friendly polymer biocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large amounts of solid wastes are produced in manufacturing of leather and leather products. Nearly 80–85% of solid wastes is generated in leather production whereas 20–30% of leather is ended up as wastes from leather goods and footwear industries which poses significant concern regarding environmental pollution. An attempt was made to produce environmentally friendly bio-composite materials with higher mechanical characteristics by utilizing solid wastes released from leather industries. In this study, leather fibers (LF) from shaving dust and leather cutting scrap were used with plant fibers such as banana (Musa acuminata), pineapple (Ananas comosus), betel nut (Areca catechu), and moringa (Moringa oleifera) for making composite sheets reinforced with natural rubber latex (NRL). New composite materials were characterized by using thermogravimetric (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques which confirmed the presence of desired physical and chemical properties in them. FTIR analysis showed characteristics absorption resonances at 3287, 2919, and 2855 cm−1 which were not apparent in starting single fibers. TGA data indicated that banana fiber (BF) composite is thermally more stable than others. The tensile strengths of pineapple fiber (PF) composite and BF sheet were 3.89 and 3.59 Mpa, respectively, which were higher than those observed in control sheet (CS). New composite sheets possess significant properties which make them suitable to be used as valuable raw materials for manufacturing of various footwear and leather goods. This interesting approach will reduce environmental pollution and ensure the sustainability of the respective ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the applications of mycelium-based bio-composites (MBCs) have grown considerably in light of their alignment with the movement toward circularity and sustainability. These lightweight biodegradable materials provide a promising alternative to traditional materials that rely heavily on the consumption of nonrenewable natural resources and present an exceptional opportunity to valorize waste streams through the production of biologically augmented materials. A wide range of feedstock materials and fabrication approaches have been employed in their production thus far; yet the differences brought about by these variations have not been investigated from an environmental perspective. This study explores the environmental implications arising from the use of seven commonly used substrate materials in the production of fungal composites potentially used as construction materials through life-cycle assessment methodology. Nine life-cycle models were developed based on different procurement, production, and processing scenarios to account for parameters such as feedstock materials, geographical region and transportation distances, processing techniques, etc. The attributional cradle-to-gate analyses and end-of-life scenarios placed the single-score environmental burden of the materials in the range of 19–43 mPt, with an average of 26.8 mPt, and demonstrated the superiority of sawdust-based composites alongside specific cases of bamboo-based materials that do not require considerable transportation. Composting the material at its end of life, as opposed to landfilling or incineration, reduced the overall environmental impact by up to 8%. Moreover, it was found that pre-compression, while effective in improving mechanical properties, can increase the environmental burden by over 50% through the consumption of electrical energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet societal and economic expectations, the bio-based composite market is developing. However, some issues remain, especially for lignocellulosic fiber composites, due to their highly hydrophilic nature which impacts the composite performance. This study focuses on bamboo fiber-polypropylene composites manufactured by film stacking using fiber mats obtained through a wet laid process. To individualize fibers, raw bamboo was cooked using an alkaline treatment: the soda process, i.e., using NaOH in order to keep a certain amount of lignin on fiber surface. A maximum surface lignin content of 81.%, measured by XPS analysis, was obtained, from the 1 wt.% NaOH concentration. The corresponding bulk lignin content, measured by Klayson method, is 21.%. The macroscopic properties of bamboo fiber-polypropylene composites were evaluated with regard to material microstructure through a multiscale analysis. The best mechanical properties were obtained for composites manufactured from bamboo fiber prepared using a 1 wt.% NaOH, which corresponds to the highest lignin content (3.5 GPa and 53 MPa for modulus and strength in tensile tests, 3.8 GPa and 64 MPa in bending tests). The good mechanical performance of the composites was attributed to the improved compatibility between the fiber and the matrix, evidenced by multiscale studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocomposites of sodium alginate (SA) and TiO2 nanoparticles have gained attention in the last decade for their versatile uses in several applications. Indeed, TiO2 is particularly appealing for its photocatalytic and antimicrobial activity and inherent safety. In this paper, TiO2 nanoparticles are successfully embedded, synthesized by a microwave‐assisted method, into SA matrix by a simple solvent casting method to form flexible and self‐consistent SA/TiO2 films. FT‐IR, XRD, and contact angle measurements confirm the formation of homogeneous and hydrophilic bio‐composites films that may be suitable for packaging or life science applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for high-performance bio-based materials towards achieving more sustainable manufacturing and circular economy models is growing significantly. Kraft lignin (KL) is an abundant and highly functional aromatic/phenolic biopolymer, being the main side product of the pulp and paper industry, as well as of the more recent 2nd generation biorefineries. In this study, KL was incorporated into a glassy epoxy system based on the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) and an amine curing agent (Jeffamine D-230), being utilized as partial replacement of the curing agent and the DGEBA prepolymer or as a reactive additive. A D-230 replacement by pristine (unmodified) KL of up to 14 wt.% was achieved while KL–epoxy composites with up to 30 wt.% KL exhibited similar thermo-mechanical properties and substantially enhanced antioxidant properties compared to the neat epoxy polymer. Additionally, the effect of the KL particle size was investigated. Ball-milled kraft lignin (BMKL, 10 μm) and nano-lignin (NLH, 220 nm) were, respectively, obtained after ball milling and ultrasonication and were studied as additives in the same epoxy system. Significantly improved dispersion and thermo-mechanical properties were obtained, mainly with nano-lignin, which exhibited fully transparent lignin–epoxy composites with higher tensile strength, storage modulus and glass transition temperature, even at 30 wt.% loadings. Lastly, KL lignin was glycidylized (GKL) and utilized as a bio-based epoxy prepolymer, achieving up to 38 wt.% replacement of fossil-based DGEBA. The GKL composites exhibited improved thermo-mechanical properties and transparency. All lignins were extensively characterized using NMR, TGA, GPC, and DLS techniques to correlate and justify the epoxy polymer characterization results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to ascertain the alterations in aging responses of fiber‐reinforced composites, as well as the effects of their natural particle reinforcement, through exposure to acidic and alkaline solutions. Specimens were produced with 0 wt. % (neat), 1 wt. %, 2 wt. % and 3 wt. % particle ratios from acorn and pinecone particles. A particle content of 2 wt. % was determined to yield the best mechanical properties in all mechanical tests conducted for pinecone reinforcement. The highest improvement in strength, observed in 3 wt. % pinecone‐reinforced composites, reached 22.5% at flexural strength. HCl and NaOH diluted in water were chosen as aging solutions. Mechanical tests were repeated at different stages of aging. According to the findings, 1 wt. % particle‐reinforced composites showed better resilience to the mechanical property reduction effect of aging compared to the 2 wt. % and 3 wt. % particle‐reinforced composites. At a particle ratio of 2 wt. %, the acorn‐reinforced specimens exhibit their highest maximum penetration force, which is 5% higher than that of the 0 wt. % composite, consistent with the results of tensile and compressive tests. Highlights: Composite material was manufactured by hand lay‐up and vacuum bagging method.Specimens were aged using acid and base solutions.Tensile, compressive, and bending results were obtained depending on particle type and ratio.Tensile, compressive, and bending strengths of composites were compared according to various aging times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]