Fabrication and Mechanical Evaluation of Eco-Friendly Epoxy Composites Reinforced with Natural Fibers

Innovation in natural fiber–reinforced polymer composites (NFRPCs) is a response to the rising interest in environmentally friendly resources. Natural fibers, particularly jute, hemp, flax, and sisal, are affordable, biodegradable, and renewable resources compared to synthetic fibers. Yet, because of their water-absorbing tendencies, and weak bonding to hydrophobic polymer matrices, their utility is undercut. This impairment of NFRPCs weakens their overall performance. To overcome these bonding issues, natural fibers have undergone chemical transformations to polymer interfacial adhesion, compatibility, and natural composites mechanical performance. This review focuses on the eco- friendlier NFRPCs, on the fiber chemical modification methods, the processing of the composites, their eco-friendliness, mechanothermic and mechanical properties, and pertinent issues. The paper also discusses anticipated challenges and potential pathways of forthcoming research to achieve sustainable, biocomposites.