Review on hygroscopic aging of cellulose fibres and their biocomposites

Published Date
Carbohydrate Polymers
20 October 2015, Vol.131:337–354, doi:10.1016/j.carbpol.2015.06.027

Review

Author 

• Thabang H. Mokhothu ^a,,
• Maya Jacob John ^a,b,1,

• aCSIR Materials Science and Manufacturing, Polymers and Composites Competence Area, PO Box 1124, Port Elizabeth 6000, South Africa
• bDepartment of Textile Science, Faculty of Science, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 10 PO Box 1600, Port Elizabeth 6000, South Africa

Received 2 March 2015. Revised 22 May 2015. Accepted 8 June 2015. Available online 16 June 2015. 

Abstract

This review presents critical literature on effects of humidity and temperature on the properties of natural fibres and its composites. The drawback of moisture absorption on the mechanical properties of natural fibre and its composites is evaluated. Numerous researchers have been working to address the moisture absorption issue, with specific attention paid to the surface treatment of fibres and refining the fibre–matrix interface. Because of the natural fibre's positive commercial and environmental outcomes, as well as their desirable properties such as high specific strength, natural fibre reinforced composites are displaying a good potential to be used in various applications such as automotive, aerospace and packaging. This review addresses a comprehensive survey on hygroscopic factors (long term environmental aging) affecting natural fibres and their performance as reinforcement in polymer composites. The effects of cellulose surface chemistry and topography on hydrophobicity are addressed. Furthermore, the review also addresses the progress in the development of superhydrophobic materials based on cellulose material for better moisture resistance. In addition, recent investigations dealing with bio-based coatings prepared from renewable resources are also discussed.

Keywords

Humidity

Temperature

Superhydrophobic

Bio-based coatings, Natural fibre

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