Kenaf fiber reinforced composites: A review

Published Dat

September 2011, Vol.32(8):4107–4121, doi:10.1016/j.matdes.2011.04.008

Review

Title 

Kenaf fiber reinforced composites: A review

• Author 

• H.M. Akil ^,
• M.F. Omar
• A.A.M. Mazuki
• S. Safiee
• Z.A.M. Ishak
• A. Abu Bakar

• School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering, Engineering Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 14300 Nibong Tebal, Penang, Malaysia

Received 12 October 2010. Accepted 1 April 2011. Available online 13 April 2011.

Abstract 

The development of high-performance engineering products made from natural resources is increasing worldwide, due to renewable and environmental issues. Among the many different types of natural resources, kenaf plants have been extensively exploited over the past few years. Therefore, this paper presents an overview of the developments made in the area of kenaf fiber reinforced composites, in terms of their market, manufacturing methods, and overall properties. Several critical issues and suggestions for future work are discussed, which underscore the roles of material scientists and manufacturing engineers, for the bright future of this new “green” material through value addition to enhance its use.

Highlights

► Kenaf fiber is unique and potentially reliable. ► Kenaf fiber is extracted from bast fiber of kenaf plants. ► Properties of kenaf fiber composite are comparable to conventional fiber composites. ► Kenaf fiber composite can be produced using conventional fiber composite manufacturing. ► Kenaf fiber composite have a bright future due to its renewability and eco-friendly.

Keywords

• A. Natural materials
• E. Mechanical
• E. Thermal

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