Influence of Fiber Treatments on Water Absorption Behavior in Natural Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites: A Review
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Abstract
Natural Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (NFRP) composites have garnered significant attention as sustainable alternatives to synthetic composites, offering lightweight, renewable, and environmentally friendly solutions for diverse engineering applications. However, the hydrophilic nature of natural fibers poses challenges, particularly in the form of water absorption, which compromises mechanical properties and durability. This review comprehensively examines the role of fiber treatments in mitigating these challenges, highlighting their impact on water absorption behavior and composite performance. The study explores various fiber treatment methods, including chemical (alkali, silane, acetylation), physical (plasma, UV irradiation, heat), and biological (enzymatic, microbial) techniques. These treatments enhance fiber hydrophobicity, improve fiber-matrix bonding, and reduce moisture uptake, leading to composites with superior tensile strength, flexural properties, and dimensional stability. Comparative analyses of treated versus untreated fibers demonstrate the significant advantages of treated composites in moisture-resistant applications. In addition to detailing experimental findings, the review addresses the challenges associated with current treatment methods, such as cost, scalability, and environmental impact, and identifies research gaps in understanding the long-term behavior and biodegradability of treated composites. The discussion extends to future directions, emphasizing the need for eco-friendly, cost-effective treatments, hybrid approaches, nano-enhancements, and standardized protocols to advance the field. This review underscores the critical role of fiber treatments in optimizing NFRP composites for practical applications, contributing to the broader goal of sustainable material development. It concludes with a call for continued innovation and collaboration to overcome existing challenges and unlock the full potential of NFRP composites as high-performance, environmentally conscious engineering materials
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