Agrofiber nanocomposites for industrial applications

In recent years, the exploration of agricultural fibers as potential materials for reinforcing polymer-based composites has become prevalent because of their abundance, renewability, low cost, ecofriendly processing, and good physical and mechanical properties. Agricultural fibers are mostly made up of cellulose, which provide their compatibility with other polymers. However, some of their components, such as lignin, hemicellulose, and surface wax, hinder their mechanical interlocking or cross-linking capability with particular polymers. Employing pretreatments will not only improve their cross-linking properties but it can also offer them a range of properties suitable for different applications. This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive literature review on the effects of various pretreatments on the physical, chemical, and structural properties of agricultural fibers such as abaca, coconut coir, hemp, and kapok fibers. The properties of their composites and their potential industrial applications, which include mechanical reinforcement, thermal and acoustic insulations, packaging, and environmental remediation are also discussed.