ZFJ Textile Machinery Co.,Ltd.,established in 1949,is a key enterprise directly managed by China Hi-Tech Group Corporation and falls under the jurisdiction of China National Machinery Industry Corporation Limited(Sino...ZFJ Textile Machinery Co.,Ltd.,established in 1949,is a key enterprise directly managed by China Hi-Tech Group Corporation and falls under the jurisdiction of China National Machinery Industry Corporation Limited(Sinomach).As a leading enterprise in the textile machinery manufacturing industry,ZFJ is dedicated to providing global customers with complete equipment solutions covering the entire industry chain.During this exhibition,ZFJ primarily highlights three key features:"high-performance fibers,green fibers,and intelligent equipment,"with a focus on showcasing nine types of products,spanning various textile equipment categories,including chemical fiber,specialty fiber,nonwoven,sizing,and dyeing machinery.展开更多
Imagine a beanie that“sees”traffic lights for the visually impaired,or a shirt that doubles as a high-speed data receiver.These aren’t sci-fi fantasies-they’re the first threads of a revolution sparked by ultra-th...Imagine a beanie that“sees”traffic lights for the visually impaired,or a shirt that doubles as a high-speed data receiver.These aren’t sci-fi fantasies-they’re the first threads of a revolution sparked by ultra-thin,flexible semiconductor fibers.In a Nature study published February 2024,researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Nanyang Technological University unveiled a breakthrough in producing high-performance optoelectronic fibers,overcoming decades-old engineering hurdles.展开更多
The remodeling of axonal connections following injury is an important feature driving functional recovery.The reticulospinal tract is an interesting descending motor tract that contains both excitatory and inhibitory ...The remodeling of axonal connections following injury is an important feature driving functional recovery.The reticulospinal tract is an interesting descending motor tract that contains both excitatory and inhibitory fibers.While the reticulospinal tract has been shown to be particularly prone to axonal growth and plasticity following injuries of the spinal cord,the differential capacities of excitatory and inhibitory fibers for plasticity remain unclear.As adaptive axonal plasticity involves a sophisticated interplay between excitatory and inhibitory input,we investigated in this study the plastic potential of glutamatergic(vGlut2)and GABAergic(vGat)fibers originating from the gigantocellular nucleus and the lateral paragigantocellular nucleus,two nuclei important for locomotor function.Using a combination of viral tracing,chemogenetic silencing,and AI-based kinematic analysis,we investigated plasticity and its impact on functional recovery within the first 3 weeks following injury,a period prone to neuronal remodeling.We demonstrate that,in this time frame,while vGlut2-positive fibers within the gigantocellular and lateral paragigantocellular nuclei rewire significantly following cervical spinal cord injury,vGat-positive fibers are rather unresponsive to injury.We also show that the acute silencing of excitatory axonal fibers which rewire in response to lesions of the spinal cord triggers a worsening of the functional recovery.Using kinematic analysis,we also pinpoint the locomotion features associated with the gigantocellular nucleus or lateral paragigantocellular nucleus during functional recovery.Overall,our study increases the understanding of the role of the gigantocellular and lateral paragigantocellular nuclei during functional recovery following spinal cord injury.展开更多
Polymer fibers are an important class of materials throughout human history,evolving from natural fibers such as cotton and silk to modern synthetic fibers such as nylon and polyester.With the advancement of materials...Polymer fibers are an important class of materials throughout human history,evolving from natural fibers such as cotton and silk to modern synthetic fibers such as nylon and polyester.With the advancement of materials science,the development of new fibers is also advancing.Polymer fibers based on dynamic covalent chemistry have attracted widespread attention due to their unique reversibility and responsiveness.Dynamic covalent chemistry has shown great potential in improving the spinnability of materials,achieving green preparation of fibers,and introducing self-healing,recyclability,and intelligent response properties into fibers.In this review,we divide these fiber materials based on dynamic covalent chemistry into monocomponent fibers,composite fibers,and fiber membranes.The preparation methods,structural characteristics,functional properties,and application performance of these fibers are summarized.The application potential and challenges of fibers based on dynamic covalent chemistry are discussed,and their future development trends are prospected.展开更多
The increasing deployment of electronics in everyday life has generated great concerns regarding the effective disposal of waste from these components.Here,we focused on a facile sustainable and economical strategy to...The increasing deployment of electronics in everyday life has generated great concerns regarding the effective disposal of waste from these components.Here,we focused on a facile sustainable and economical strategy to provide ideas for this issue.This strategy relied on using appropriate mechanical treatment and sodium lignosulfonate coating to improve the dispersion and interfacial compatibility of bamboo fibers in poly(lactic acid).By optimising the particle size and concentration of sodium lignosulphonate,high value-added and green composites were prepared using sectional pressurization with a venting procedure.The treated composite displayed an ultra-smooth surface(roughness of 0.592 nm),impressive transient properties(disintegration and degradation behaviour after 30 d),and outstanding ultraviolet(UV)shielding properties(100%).These properties hold the promise of being an excellent substrate for electronic devices,especially for high-precision processing,transient electronics,and UV damage prevention.The satisfactory interfacial compatibility of the composites was confirmed by detailed characterisation regarding the related physicochemical properties.This investigation offers a sustainable approach for producing high value-added green composites from biomass and biomass-derived materials.展开更多
Sugarcane bagasse(SCB)is a promising natural fiber for bio-based composites,but its high moisture absorption and poor interfacial adhesion with polymer matrices limit mechanical performance.While chemical treatments h...Sugarcane bagasse(SCB)is a promising natural fiber for bio-based composites,but its high moisture absorption and poor interfacial adhesion with polymer matrices limit mechanical performance.While chemical treatments have been extensively explored,limited research has addressed how thermal treatment alone alters the surface properties and reinforcing behavior of SCB fibers.This study aims to fill that gap by investigating the effects of heat treatment on SCB fiber structure and its performance in starch/poly(vinyl alcohol)(PVA)composites.Characterization techniques including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy(FTIR),X-ray diffraction(XRD),X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS),and scanning electron microscopy(SEM)were employed to analyze changes in fiber morphology,surface chemistry,and crystallinity.Mechanical properties were assessed via tensile,flexural,and impact testing,and moisture absorption was also evaluated.Composites reinforced with SCB fibers treated at 200○C exhibited significantly superior mechanical properties compared to those prepared with untreated or differently treated fibers.The tensile,flexural,and impact performance of the composites were 15.13,19.37 MPa,and 7.28 J/m,respectively.Composites treated at this temperature also retained better mechanical properties after exposure to humidity.These findings demonstrate that heat treatment is a simple and sustainable method to improve the durability and mechanical performance of nature fiber-reinforced composites,expanding their potential for environmentally friendly material applications.展开更多
Global warming and energy crisis are two major challenges in the new-century.Wearable materials that enable all-seasonal self-adapting thermal comfort without additional energy-input attract significant attention as a...Global warming and energy crisis are two major challenges in the new-century.Wearable materials that enable all-seasonal self-adapting thermal comfort without additional energy-input attract significant attention as a solution to the increasing severity of extreme climate-change.Inspired by autologous temperature-regulation and multidimensional-sensing origins of nature-skin composed of nature collagen fibers,this study engineered a nanoscale wearable natural fibers-derived thermochromic material(TMEH-skin)for robust all-season self-adapting thermal management by tactically integrating traditional immersion and spraying methods with layer-by-layer stacking-strategy.Because of the on-demand multi-functional layer-structure design,TMEH-skin achieves spontaneous~38.16%visible lightmodulation and~95.1%infrared-emission,demonstrating outstanding double-self-switching thermal management origins by simple color-changing without additional energy-input.Moreover,TMEH-skin has gratifying tensile strength of 13.18 MPa,water vapor permeability,electrical-conductivity,and hydrophobicity,further broadening the application potential and scenarios as wearable materials.In applications for military-missions or reconnaissance behind enemy-lines,TMEH-skin robustly integrates the multi-functionalities of wearing-comfort,physiological signal-response capability for accurate transmission of Morse-code,and thermal management performances under special circumstances,indicating its tremendous potential for smart military-applications.Simulation results show that TMEH-skin has prominent energy-saving efficiency in cities with different climate zones.This study provides a new reference to the booming innovation of natural-derived wearable materials for all-seasonal self-adapting thermal management.展开更多
Carbon fibers(CFs)with notable comprehensive properties,such as light weight,high specific strength,and stiffness,have garnered considerable interest in both academic and industrial fields due to their diverse and adv...Carbon fibers(CFs)with notable comprehensive properties,such as light weight,high specific strength,and stiffness,have garnered considerable interest in both academic and industrial fields due to their diverse and advanced applications.However,the commonly utilized precursors,such as polyacrylonitrile and pitch,exhibit a lack of environmental sustainability,and their costs are heavily reliant on fluctuating petroleum prices.To meet the substantial market demand for CFs,significant efforts have been made to develop cost-effective and sustainable CFs derived from biomass.Lignin,the most abundant polyphenolic compound in nature,is emerging as a promising precursor which is well-suited for the production of CFs due to its renewable nature,low cost,high carbon content,and aromatic structures.Nevertheless,the majority of lignin raw materials are currently derived from pulping and biorefining industrial by-products,which are diverse and heterogeneous in nature,restricting the industrialization of lignin-derived CFs.This review classifies fossil-derived and biomass-derived CFs,starting from the sources and chemical structures of raw lignin,and outlines the preparation methods linked to the performance of lignin-derived CFs.A comprehensive discussion is presented on the relationship between the structural characteristics of lignin,spinning preparation,and structure-morphology-property of ligninderived CFs.Additionally,the potential applications of these materials in various domains,including energy,catalysis,composites,and other advanced products,are also described with the objective of spotlighting the unique merits of lignin.Finally,the current challenges faced and future prospects for the advancement of lignin-derived CFs are proposed.展开更多
Composites made from biopolymers and natural fibers are gaining popularity as alternative sustainable structural materials.Biopolyesters including polylactic acid(PLA),polybutylene succinate(PBS),and polyhydroxyalkano...Composites made from biopolymers and natural fibers are gaining popularity as alternative sustainable structural materials.Biopolyesters including polylactic acid(PLA),polybutylene succinate(PBS),and polyhydroxyalkanoate(PHA),when mixed with natural fibers such as kenaf,hemp,and jute,provide an environmentally acceptable alternative to traditional fossil-based materials.This article examines current research on developments in the integration of biopolymers with natural fibers,with a focus on enhancing mechanical,thermal,and sustainability.Innovative approaches to surface treatment of natural fibers,such as biological and chemical treatments,have demonstrated enhanced adhesion with biopolymer matrices,increasing attributes such as tensile strength and rigidity.Furthermore,nano filling technologies such as nanocellulose and nanoparticles have improved the attributes of multifunctional composites,including heat conductivity and moisture resistance.According to performance analysis,biopolymernatural fiber-based composites may compete with synthetic composites in construction applications,particularly in lightweight buildings and automobiles.However,significant issues such as degradation in humid settings and longtermendurancemust be solved.To support a circular economy,solutions involve the development ofmoisture-resistant polymers and composite recycling technology.This article examines current advancements and identifies problems and opportunities to provide insight into the future direction of more inventive and sustainable biocomposites,and also the dangers they pose to green technology and industrial materials.These findings are significant in terms of the development of building materials which are not only competitive but also contribute to global sustainability.展开更多
Solar steam generation(SSG)offers a cost-effective solution for producing clean water by utilizing solar energy.However,integrating effective thermal management and water transportation to develop high-efficiency sola...Solar steam generation(SSG)offers a cost-effective solution for producing clean water by utilizing solar energy.However,integrating effective thermal management and water transportation to develop high-efficiency solar evaporators remains a significant challenge.Here,inspired by the hierarchical structure of the stem of bird of paradise,a three-dimensional multiscale liquid metal/polyacrylonitrile(LM/PAN)evaporator is fabricated by assembling LM/PAN fibers.The strong localized surface plasmon resonance of LM particles and porous structure of LM/PAN fibers with interconnected channels lead to efficient light absorption up to 90.9%.Consequently,the multiscale biomimetic LM/PAN evaporator achieves an outstanding water evaporation rate of 2.66 kg m^(-2)h^(-1)with a solar energy efficiency of 96.5%under one sun irradiation and an exceptional water rate of 2.58 kg m^(-2)h^(-1)in brine.Additionally,the LM/PAN evaporator demonstrates a superior purification performance for seawater,with the concentration of Na^(+),Mg^(2+),K^(+)and Ca^(2+)in real seawater dramatically decreased by three orders to less than 7 mg L^(-1) after desalination under light irradiation.The multiscale LM/PAN evaporator with hierarchical structure regulates the water transportation as well as thermal management for highly effective solar-driven evaporation,providing valuable insight into the structural design principles for advanced SSG systems.展开更多
An April 2024 report in the journal Science suggests that“smart”or“intelligent”textiles are a step closer to making the leap from the lab to real life[1,2].The study details an innovative fiber that gathers energy...An April 2024 report in the journal Science suggests that“smart”or“intelligent”textiles are a step closer to making the leap from the lab to real life[1,2].The study details an innovative fiber that gathers energy from the environment and uses it to send electrical signals and create light,without the need for batteries or chips.The advance yields textiles that can directly respond to users’touch,opening new avenues for intelligent interaction between people and their environments,in addition to enabling potential medical,industrial,and consumer applications.展开更多
Poly(L-lactic acid)(PLLA)has been widely concerned because of its excellent biodegradability and biocompatibility.However,the poor crystallization ability of PLLA during the molding process not only leads to weak mech...Poly(L-lactic acid)(PLLA)has been widely concerned because of its excellent biodegradability and biocompatibility.However,the poor crystallization ability of PLLA during the molding process not only leads to weak mechanical properties but also reduces the processing efficiency,which limits the application of PLLA greatly.Enhancing crystallization ability of PLLA via introducing inorganic nanoparticles usually sacrifices biodegradability or transparency.Here,the microfine fibers with stereocomplex(SC)crystallites were incorporated into PLLA film to tailor the crystallization ability of PLLA as well as the mechanical properties.The results confirmed that the crystallization ability of PLLA matrix under different circumstances could be greatly enhanced by a few amounts of SC crystalline fibers,and synchronously enhanced tensile strength and ductility were also achieved,especially at relatively high temperature.Due to the relatively homogeneous dispersion of SC crystalline fibers and the similar refractive index between components,the PLLA-based film also exhibited high transparency,up to 85%-90%depending on the content of SC crystalline fibers.This work provides guidance for manufacturing transparent PLLA-based packaging materials with good crystallization capability and mechanical properties.展开更多
Polymeric materials,known for their lightweight and strength,are widely used today.However,their non-biodegradable nature poses significant environmental challenges.This research aimed to develop biodegradable films f...Polymeric materials,known for their lightweight and strength,are widely used today.However,their non-biodegradable nature poses significant environmental challenges.This research aimed to develop biodegradable films from fruits and vegetables,using alginate as a binding agent.Using a completely randomized design,seven experimental sets were prepared with carrots,Kimju guava,and Namwa banana peel fibers as the primary materials and alginate as the secondary material at three levels:1.2,1.8,and 2.4 by weight.The solution technique was employed to create the samples.Upon testing mechanical and physical properties,experimental set 3,consisting of 60%guava and 1.8%alginate,emerged as the optimal ratio.This combination exhibited favorable physical properties,including a thickness of 0.26±0.02 mm,meeting the standards for food packaging films.Additionally,the tensile strength was 0.50±0.01 N/m²,and the elongation at break was 55.60±0.44%.Regarding chemical properties,the moisture content of 5.64±0.03%fell within the acceptable range for dried food.Furthermore,a 30-day soil burial test revealed that the sample from experimental set 3 exhibited the highest degradation rate.In conclusion,these findings suggest that guava can be a promising raw material for producing biodegradable plastics suitable for packaging applications.展开更多
The cemented-gangue-fly-ash backfill(CGFB)prepared from coal-based solid waste materials commonly exhibits high brittleness,leading to an increased susceptibility to cracking.Uniaxial compressive strength(UCS),acousti...The cemented-gangue-fly-ash backfill(CGFB)prepared from coal-based solid waste materials commonly exhibits high brittleness,leading to an increased susceptibility to cracking.Uniaxial compressive strength(UCS),acoustic emission(AE),and scanning electron microscopy tests were conducted on CGFB samples with recycled steel fiber(RSF)contents of 0,0.5%,1.0%and 1.5%to assess the mechanical properties and damage evolution law of the CGFB.The research findings indicate that:1)When RSF contents were 0.5%,1%,and 1.5%,respectively,compared to samples without RSF,the UCS decreased by 3.86%,6.76%,and 15.59%,while toughness increased by 69%,98%,and 123%;2)The addition of RSFs reduced the post-peak stress energy activity and increased the fluctuations in the b-value;3)As the RSF dosage increased from 0 to 1.5%,the per unit dissipated strain energy increased from 5.84 to 21.51,and the post-peak released energy increased from 15.07 to 33.76,indicating that the external energy required for the CGFB sample to fail increased;4)The hydration products,such as C-S-H gel,ettringite,and micro-particle materials,were embedded in the damaged areas of the RSFs,increasing the frictional force at the interface between the RSF and CGFB matrix.The shape variability of the RSFs caused interlocking between the RSFs and the matrix.Both mechanisms strengthened the bridging effect of the RSFs in the CGFB,thereby improving the damage resistance capability of CGFB.The excellent damage resistance occurred at an RSF content of 0.5%;thus,this content is recommended for engineering applications.展开更多
This paper examines the design and optimization of optical fibers for high-speed data transmission, emphasizing advancements that maximize efficiency in modern communication networks. Optical fibers, core components o...This paper examines the design and optimization of optical fibers for high-speed data transmission, emphasizing advancements that maximize efficiency in modern communication networks. Optical fibers, core components of global communication infrastructure, are capable of transmitting data over long distances with minimal loss through principles like total internal reflection. This study explores single-mode and multi-mode fiber designs, providing an overview of key parameters such as core diameter, refractive index profile, and numerical aperture. Mathematical modeling using Maxwell’s equations plays a central role in optimizing fiber performance, helping engineers mitigate challenges like attenuation and dispersion. The paper also discusses advanced techniques, including dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM), which enables terabit-per-second data rates. Case studies in practical applications, such as fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) networks and transoceanic cables, highlight the impact of optimized designs on network performance. Looking forward, innovations in photonic crystal fibers and hollow-core fibers are expected to drive further improvements, enabling ultra-high-speed data transmission. The paper concludes by underscoring the significance of continuous research and development to address challenges in optical fiber technology and support the increasing demands of global communication systems.展开更多
The increase in wood and wood-based products in the construction and furniture sectors has grown exponentially,generating severe environmental and socioeconomic impacts.Particleboard panels have been the main cost-ben...The increase in wood and wood-based products in the construction and furniture sectors has grown exponentially,generating severe environmental and socioeconomic impacts.Particleboard panels have been the main cost-benefit option on the market due to their lightness and lower cost compared to solid wood.However,the synthetic adhesives used in producing traditional particleboard panels cause serious harm to human health.Developing particleboard panels with fibrous waste and natural adhesives could be a sustainable alternative for these sectors.The work aimed to create particleboards with fibrous wastes from the pseudostem of the banana tree(Musa paradisiaca)and different proportions of the natural adhesive cassava starch-CS in replacement of synthetic adhesive urea-formaldehyde-UF.Five experimental groups were manufactured with banana trees and different percentages of UF and CS adhesives,namely(100UF–0%CS),(50%UF–50%CS),(30%UF–70%CS),(10%UF–90%CS)and(0%UF–100%CS).The particleboards had their physical-mechanical properties determined.The apparent density values did not show significant variation between the assessed treatments.Regarding the water absorption and thickness swelling,the best performances were observed for the panels made without the addition of CS(100%UF).For the mechanical properties of static bending strength and Janka hardness,it was identified that adding up to 50%CS did not interfere with the quality of the panels.These analyses show that the particleboard panels produced with wastes of the banana tree bonded with natural CS adhesivemay be an economically viable and environmentally correct alternative,positively strengthening the development of sustainable strategies.展开更多
The increasing consciousness about the depletion of natural resources and the sustainability agenda are the major driving forces to try to reuse and recycle organic materials such as agri-food and industrial wastes.In...The increasing consciousness about the depletion of natural resources and the sustainability agenda are the major driving forces to try to reuse and recycle organic materials such as agri-food and industrial wastes.In this context,keratin fibers,as a waste from the tannery industry,represent a great opportunity for the development of green functional materials.In this paper,keratin fibers were surface functionalized using the Layer-by-Layer(LbL)deposition technique and then freeze-dried in order to obtain a lightweight,fire-resistant,and sustainable material.The LbL coating,made with chitosan and carboxymethylated cellulose nanofibers,is fundamental in enabling the formation of a self-sustained structure after freeze-drying.The prepared porous fiber networks(density 100 kg m^(-3))display a keratin fiber content greater than 95 wt%and can easily self-extinguish the flame during a flammability test in a vertical configuration.In addition,during forced combustion tests(50 kW m^(-2))the samples exhibited a reduction of 37% in heat release rate and a reduction of 75%in smoke production if compared with a commercial polyurethane foam.The results obtained represent an excellent opportunity for the development of fire-safe sustainable materials based on fiber wastes.展开更多
Basalt fibers/7075 aluminum matrix composites were studied to meet the demand of aluminum alloy drill pipes for material wear resistance.The composites with different basalt fiber additions were prepared by hot presse...Basalt fibers/7075 aluminum matrix composites were studied to meet the demand of aluminum alloy drill pipes for material wear resistance.The composites with different basalt fiber additions were prepared by hot pressed sintering and hot extrusion.The mechanical properties as well as friction and wear properties of the composites were studied by microstructure analysis,tensile experiments,friction and wear experiments.The results showed that basalt fibers were oriented and uniformly distributed and led to local grain refinement in the alloy matrix.The hardness and elongation of the composites were improved.The friction coefficient of the composites increased and then decreased,and the maximum wear depth and wear amount decreased,then increased,then decreased again with the growth of basalt fiber addition.Meanwhile,the inclusion of basalt fibers mitigated the uneven wear of the extruded 7075 aluminum alloy.The value of wear depth difference of 7075-0.2BF was the smallest,and that of 7075-2.0BF was close to it.The maximum wear depth and wear volume the 7075-0.2BF and 7075-2.0BF were also the smallest.The inhibition of uneven wear by basalt fibers enhanced of wear resistance for 7075 aluminum alloy,which has reference significance for improving the performance of aluminum alloy drill pipes.展开更多
This study investigates the long-term thermal-oxidative stability and mechanical properties of phenolcontaining phthalonitrile monomer(PN75)and dicyanate ester of bisphenol-A(DCBA)composites reinforced with short carb...This study investigates the long-term thermal-oxidative stability and mechanical properties of phenolcontaining phthalonitrile monomer(PN75)and dicyanate ester of bisphenol-A(DCBA)composites reinforced with short carbon fibers T700SC(SCF)within a temperature range of 330375℃.The research focuses on the PN75 monomer and DCBA blend reinforced SCF composites with varying SCF content,examining mass loss and changes in flexural strength after thermal aging for 50 h(h).Results show that the SCF-reinforced composites based on the PN75/DCBA blend consistently outperform the neat blend in flexural strength,both at room temperature and after thermal aging.The introduction of the SCF significantly improves the composites'thermal stability and mechanical retention,with higher SCF content correlating to better performance.Notably,after aging at 350℃,the SCF-reinforced composites based(30%(mass)SCF)retained 88.8%of its flexural strength,compared to 61.1%for the neat blend.Morphological analysis reveals that while thermal aging causes degradation of the PN75/DCBA blend layer on SCF surfaces,the overall composite structure maintains good mechanical properties up to 350℃.At 375℃,significant degradation occurs,yet the composites still retain flexural strengths above 78 MPa.This study demonstrates the potential of the SCF-reinforced composites based on PN75/DCBA blend for high-temperature applications,establishing their upper-temperature limit for long-term use in oxidative environments.展开更多
With growing concerns for global warming and environmental issues,the research community has contributed significantly to green technology in the area of material science through the development of natural fiber-reinf...With growing concerns for global warming and environmental issues,the research community has contributed significantly to green technology in the area of material science through the development of natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites(NFRPC).Polymers serve as the matrix in NFRPC,while natural fibers serve as the reinforcing materials.Demand for high-performing materials made with natural resources is growing continuously.Natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites are sustainable biocomposites fabricated with natural fibers embedded with a polymer matrix.They offer a wide range of advantages,including a low weight-to-strength ratio,high flexural strength,damping properties,and resistance to corrosion,wear,and impact.Understanding the basic properties,characteristics,and processing techniques for natural fibers is important to consider their use as raw materials for high-quality biocomposite.Natural fibers come with low density and a high strengthto-weight ratio,allowing them to be a potential reinforcement for low-weight composites.This article attempts to present a comprehensive review of the available natural fibers,their classification,types,structures,physical properties,characteristics,and mechanical properties.Natural fibers are hydrophilic in nature and require physical and chemical treatment prior to their application as reinforcing material.This review will also cover the required physical and chemical treatments of natural fibers for fabricating biocomposites.展开更多
文摘ZFJ Textile Machinery Co.,Ltd.,established in 1949,is a key enterprise directly managed by China Hi-Tech Group Corporation and falls under the jurisdiction of China National Machinery Industry Corporation Limited(Sinomach).As a leading enterprise in the textile machinery manufacturing industry,ZFJ is dedicated to providing global customers with complete equipment solutions covering the entire industry chain.During this exhibition,ZFJ primarily highlights three key features:"high-performance fibers,green fibers,and intelligent equipment,"with a focus on showcasing nine types of products,spanning various textile equipment categories,including chemical fiber,specialty fiber,nonwoven,sizing,and dyeing machinery.
文摘Imagine a beanie that“sees”traffic lights for the visually impaired,or a shirt that doubles as a high-speed data receiver.These aren’t sci-fi fantasies-they’re the first threads of a revolution sparked by ultra-thin,flexible semiconductor fibers.In a Nature study published February 2024,researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Nanyang Technological University unveiled a breakthrough in producing high-performance optoelectronic fibers,overcoming decades-old engineering hurdles.
基金supported by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft(DFG),TRR274(Project ID 408885537,Sy Nergy,EXC 2145/ID 390857198,to FMB)。
文摘The remodeling of axonal connections following injury is an important feature driving functional recovery.The reticulospinal tract is an interesting descending motor tract that contains both excitatory and inhibitory fibers.While the reticulospinal tract has been shown to be particularly prone to axonal growth and plasticity following injuries of the spinal cord,the differential capacities of excitatory and inhibitory fibers for plasticity remain unclear.As adaptive axonal plasticity involves a sophisticated interplay between excitatory and inhibitory input,we investigated in this study the plastic potential of glutamatergic(vGlut2)and GABAergic(vGat)fibers originating from the gigantocellular nucleus and the lateral paragigantocellular nucleus,two nuclei important for locomotor function.Using a combination of viral tracing,chemogenetic silencing,and AI-based kinematic analysis,we investigated plasticity and its impact on functional recovery within the first 3 weeks following injury,a period prone to neuronal remodeling.We demonstrate that,in this time frame,while vGlut2-positive fibers within the gigantocellular and lateral paragigantocellular nuclei rewire significantly following cervical spinal cord injury,vGat-positive fibers are rather unresponsive to injury.We also show that the acute silencing of excitatory axonal fibers which rewire in response to lesions of the spinal cord triggers a worsening of the functional recovery.Using kinematic analysis,we also pinpoint the locomotion features associated with the gigantocellular nucleus or lateral paragigantocellular nucleus during functional recovery.Overall,our study increases the understanding of the role of the gigantocellular and lateral paragigantocellular nuclei during functional recovery following spinal cord injury.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52203169,52203135 and 52403153)foundation of Yangtze Delta Region Institute(Huzhou)of UESTC(No.U03220149)+2 种基金Huzhou Science and Technology Program Projects(No.2023GZ18)Zhejiang Postdoctoral Research Project(No.ZJ2023133)Science and Technology Cooperation Fund Program of Chengdu-Chinese Academy of Sciences(2023-2025).
文摘Polymer fibers are an important class of materials throughout human history,evolving from natural fibers such as cotton and silk to modern synthetic fibers such as nylon and polyester.With the advancement of materials science,the development of new fibers is also advancing.Polymer fibers based on dynamic covalent chemistry have attracted widespread attention due to their unique reversibility and responsiveness.Dynamic covalent chemistry has shown great potential in improving the spinnability of materials,achieving green preparation of fibers,and introducing self-healing,recyclability,and intelligent response properties into fibers.In this review,we divide these fiber materials based on dynamic covalent chemistry into monocomponent fibers,composite fibers,and fiber membranes.The preparation methods,structural characteristics,functional properties,and application performance of these fibers are summarized.The application potential and challenges of fibers based on dynamic covalent chemistry are discussed,and their future development trends are prospected.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.31971741 and 31760195)the Yunnan Fundamental Research Projects(Nos.2018FB066 and 202001AT070141)the Yunnan Agricultural Basic Research Special Projects(No.202101BD070001-086).
文摘The increasing deployment of electronics in everyday life has generated great concerns regarding the effective disposal of waste from these components.Here,we focused on a facile sustainable and economical strategy to provide ideas for this issue.This strategy relied on using appropriate mechanical treatment and sodium lignosulfonate coating to improve the dispersion and interfacial compatibility of bamboo fibers in poly(lactic acid).By optimising the particle size and concentration of sodium lignosulphonate,high value-added and green composites were prepared using sectional pressurization with a venting procedure.The treated composite displayed an ultra-smooth surface(roughness of 0.592 nm),impressive transient properties(disintegration and degradation behaviour after 30 d),and outstanding ultraviolet(UV)shielding properties(100%).These properties hold the promise of being an excellent substrate for electronic devices,especially for high-precision processing,transient electronics,and UV damage prevention.The satisfactory interfacial compatibility of the composites was confirmed by detailed characterisation regarding the related physicochemical properties.This investigation offers a sustainable approach for producing high value-added green composites from biomass and biomass-derived materials.
文摘Sugarcane bagasse(SCB)is a promising natural fiber for bio-based composites,but its high moisture absorption and poor interfacial adhesion with polymer matrices limit mechanical performance.While chemical treatments have been extensively explored,limited research has addressed how thermal treatment alone alters the surface properties and reinforcing behavior of SCB fibers.This study aims to fill that gap by investigating the effects of heat treatment on SCB fiber structure and its performance in starch/poly(vinyl alcohol)(PVA)composites.Characterization techniques including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy(FTIR),X-ray diffraction(XRD),X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS),and scanning electron microscopy(SEM)were employed to analyze changes in fiber morphology,surface chemistry,and crystallinity.Mechanical properties were assessed via tensile,flexural,and impact testing,and moisture absorption was also evaluated.Composites reinforced with SCB fibers treated at 200○C exhibited significantly superior mechanical properties compared to those prepared with untreated or differently treated fibers.The tensile,flexural,and impact performance of the composites were 15.13,19.37 MPa,and 7.28 J/m,respectively.Composites treated at this temperature also retained better mechanical properties after exposure to humidity.These findings demonstrate that heat treatment is a simple and sustainable method to improve the durability and mechanical performance of nature fiber-reinforced composites,expanding their potential for environmentally friendly material applications.
基金the Institute of Biomass&Functional Materials of Shaanxi University of Science and Technology for funding this research workfinancially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(2207081675,22278257,22308209)+1 种基金the Key R&D Program of Shaanxi Province(2024SF-YBXM-586)the Project of Innovation Capability Support Program in Shaanxi Province(2024ZC-KJXX-005)。
文摘Global warming and energy crisis are two major challenges in the new-century.Wearable materials that enable all-seasonal self-adapting thermal comfort without additional energy-input attract significant attention as a solution to the increasing severity of extreme climate-change.Inspired by autologous temperature-regulation and multidimensional-sensing origins of nature-skin composed of nature collagen fibers,this study engineered a nanoscale wearable natural fibers-derived thermochromic material(TMEH-skin)for robust all-season self-adapting thermal management by tactically integrating traditional immersion and spraying methods with layer-by-layer stacking-strategy.Because of the on-demand multi-functional layer-structure design,TMEH-skin achieves spontaneous~38.16%visible lightmodulation and~95.1%infrared-emission,demonstrating outstanding double-self-switching thermal management origins by simple color-changing without additional energy-input.Moreover,TMEH-skin has gratifying tensile strength of 13.18 MPa,water vapor permeability,electrical-conductivity,and hydrophobicity,further broadening the application potential and scenarios as wearable materials.In applications for military-missions or reconnaissance behind enemy-lines,TMEH-skin robustly integrates the multi-functionalities of wearing-comfort,physiological signal-response capability for accurate transmission of Morse-code,and thermal management performances under special circumstances,indicating its tremendous potential for smart military-applications.Simulation results show that TMEH-skin has prominent energy-saving efficiency in cities with different climate zones.This study provides a new reference to the booming innovation of natural-derived wearable materials for all-seasonal self-adapting thermal management.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,Grant/Award Numbers:32171717,32271814Natural Science Foundation of Tianjin Municipality,Grant/Award Numbers:24JCJQJC00030,22JCYBJC01560,23JCZDJC00630China Postdoctoral Science Foundation,Grant/Award Number:2023M740562。
文摘Carbon fibers(CFs)with notable comprehensive properties,such as light weight,high specific strength,and stiffness,have garnered considerable interest in both academic and industrial fields due to their diverse and advanced applications.However,the commonly utilized precursors,such as polyacrylonitrile and pitch,exhibit a lack of environmental sustainability,and their costs are heavily reliant on fluctuating petroleum prices.To meet the substantial market demand for CFs,significant efforts have been made to develop cost-effective and sustainable CFs derived from biomass.Lignin,the most abundant polyphenolic compound in nature,is emerging as a promising precursor which is well-suited for the production of CFs due to its renewable nature,low cost,high carbon content,and aromatic structures.Nevertheless,the majority of lignin raw materials are currently derived from pulping and biorefining industrial by-products,which are diverse and heterogeneous in nature,restricting the industrialization of lignin-derived CFs.This review classifies fossil-derived and biomass-derived CFs,starting from the sources and chemical structures of raw lignin,and outlines the preparation methods linked to the performance of lignin-derived CFs.A comprehensive discussion is presented on the relationship between the structural characteristics of lignin,spinning preparation,and structure-morphology-property of ligninderived CFs.Additionally,the potential applications of these materials in various domains,including energy,catalysis,composites,and other advanced products,are also described with the objective of spotlighting the unique merits of lignin.Finally,the current challenges faced and future prospects for the advancement of lignin-derived CFs are proposed.
文摘Composites made from biopolymers and natural fibers are gaining popularity as alternative sustainable structural materials.Biopolyesters including polylactic acid(PLA),polybutylene succinate(PBS),and polyhydroxyalkanoate(PHA),when mixed with natural fibers such as kenaf,hemp,and jute,provide an environmentally acceptable alternative to traditional fossil-based materials.This article examines current research on developments in the integration of biopolymers with natural fibers,with a focus on enhancing mechanical,thermal,and sustainability.Innovative approaches to surface treatment of natural fibers,such as biological and chemical treatments,have demonstrated enhanced adhesion with biopolymer matrices,increasing attributes such as tensile strength and rigidity.Furthermore,nano filling technologies such as nanocellulose and nanoparticles have improved the attributes of multifunctional composites,including heat conductivity and moisture resistance.According to performance analysis,biopolymernatural fiber-based composites may compete with synthetic composites in construction applications,particularly in lightweight buildings and automobiles.However,significant issues such as degradation in humid settings and longtermendurancemust be solved.To support a circular economy,solutions involve the development ofmoisture-resistant polymers and composite recycling technology.This article examines current advancements and identifies problems and opportunities to provide insight into the future direction of more inventive and sustainable biocomposites,and also the dangers they pose to green technology and industrial materials.These findings are significant in terms of the development of building materials which are not only competitive but also contribute to global sustainability.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(52372096,52102368,22205189,52203103)the Program for Guangdong Introducing Innovative and Entrepreneurial Teams(2017ZT07C291)+4 种基金the Shenzhen Science and Technology Program(JCYJ20230807114205011 and KQTD20170810141424366)the Guang Dong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation(2024A1515011953,2022A1515011010 and 2021A1515110350)the Regional Joint Fund for Basic Research and Applied Basic Research of Guangdong Province(No.2020SA001515110905)the Shenzhen Natural Science Foundation(GXWD20201231105722002-20200824163747001)the 2023 SZSTI stable support scheme.
文摘Solar steam generation(SSG)offers a cost-effective solution for producing clean water by utilizing solar energy.However,integrating effective thermal management and water transportation to develop high-efficiency solar evaporators remains a significant challenge.Here,inspired by the hierarchical structure of the stem of bird of paradise,a three-dimensional multiscale liquid metal/polyacrylonitrile(LM/PAN)evaporator is fabricated by assembling LM/PAN fibers.The strong localized surface plasmon resonance of LM particles and porous structure of LM/PAN fibers with interconnected channels lead to efficient light absorption up to 90.9%.Consequently,the multiscale biomimetic LM/PAN evaporator achieves an outstanding water evaporation rate of 2.66 kg m^(-2)h^(-1)with a solar energy efficiency of 96.5%under one sun irradiation and an exceptional water rate of 2.58 kg m^(-2)h^(-1)in brine.Additionally,the LM/PAN evaporator demonstrates a superior purification performance for seawater,with the concentration of Na^(+),Mg^(2+),K^(+)and Ca^(2+)in real seawater dramatically decreased by three orders to less than 7 mg L^(-1) after desalination under light irradiation.The multiscale LM/PAN evaporator with hierarchical structure regulates the water transportation as well as thermal management for highly effective solar-driven evaporation,providing valuable insight into the structural design principles for advanced SSG systems.
文摘An April 2024 report in the journal Science suggests that“smart”or“intelligent”textiles are a step closer to making the leap from the lab to real life[1,2].The study details an innovative fiber that gathers energy from the environment and uses it to send electrical signals and create light,without the need for batteries or chips.The advance yields textiles that can directly respond to users’touch,opening new avenues for intelligent interaction between people and their environments,in addition to enabling potential medical,industrial,and consumer applications.
基金supported by the Sichuan Science and Technology Program(No.2023ZHCG0050)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2023M742883)+2 种基金the Science and Technology Innovation Fund for Basic Scientific Research Operating Expenses of Central Universities(No.2682023CX002)the New Interdisciplinary Cultivation Fund of SWJTU(No.2682022KJ040)SEM characterizations were supported by the Analytical and Testing Center of Southwest Jiaotong University。
文摘Poly(L-lactic acid)(PLLA)has been widely concerned because of its excellent biodegradability and biocompatibility.However,the poor crystallization ability of PLLA during the molding process not only leads to weak mechanical properties but also reduces the processing efficiency,which limits the application of PLLA greatly.Enhancing crystallization ability of PLLA via introducing inorganic nanoparticles usually sacrifices biodegradability or transparency.Here,the microfine fibers with stereocomplex(SC)crystallites were incorporated into PLLA film to tailor the crystallization ability of PLLA as well as the mechanical properties.The results confirmed that the crystallization ability of PLLA matrix under different circumstances could be greatly enhanced by a few amounts of SC crystalline fibers,and synchronously enhanced tensile strength and ductility were also achieved,especially at relatively high temperature.Due to the relatively homogeneous dispersion of SC crystalline fibers and the similar refractive index between components,the PLLA-based film also exhibited high transparency,up to 85%-90%depending on the content of SC crystalline fibers.This work provides guidance for manufacturing transparent PLLA-based packaging materials with good crystallization capability and mechanical properties.
基金funding from the Environmental Science Program for Academic Excellence and Community Research for Fiscal Year 2024,a financial resource of the Environmental Science and Technology Program,Faculty of Science,Buriram Rajabhat University.Additionally,Buriram Rajabhat University provided a publication budget.
文摘Polymeric materials,known for their lightweight and strength,are widely used today.However,their non-biodegradable nature poses significant environmental challenges.This research aimed to develop biodegradable films from fruits and vegetables,using alginate as a binding agent.Using a completely randomized design,seven experimental sets were prepared with carrots,Kimju guava,and Namwa banana peel fibers as the primary materials and alginate as the secondary material at three levels:1.2,1.8,and 2.4 by weight.The solution technique was employed to create the samples.Upon testing mechanical and physical properties,experimental set 3,consisting of 60%guava and 1.8%alginate,emerged as the optimal ratio.This combination exhibited favorable physical properties,including a thickness of 0.26±0.02 mm,meeting the standards for food packaging films.Additionally,the tensile strength was 0.50±0.01 N/m²,and the elongation at break was 55.60±0.44%.Regarding chemical properties,the moisture content of 5.64±0.03%fell within the acceptable range for dried food.Furthermore,a 30-day soil burial test revealed that the sample from experimental set 3 exhibited the highest degradation rate.In conclusion,these findings suggest that guava can be a promising raw material for producing biodegradable plastics suitable for packaging applications.
基金Projects(52274143,51874284)supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China。
文摘The cemented-gangue-fly-ash backfill(CGFB)prepared from coal-based solid waste materials commonly exhibits high brittleness,leading to an increased susceptibility to cracking.Uniaxial compressive strength(UCS),acoustic emission(AE),and scanning electron microscopy tests were conducted on CGFB samples with recycled steel fiber(RSF)contents of 0,0.5%,1.0%and 1.5%to assess the mechanical properties and damage evolution law of the CGFB.The research findings indicate that:1)When RSF contents were 0.5%,1%,and 1.5%,respectively,compared to samples without RSF,the UCS decreased by 3.86%,6.76%,and 15.59%,while toughness increased by 69%,98%,and 123%;2)The addition of RSFs reduced the post-peak stress energy activity and increased the fluctuations in the b-value;3)As the RSF dosage increased from 0 to 1.5%,the per unit dissipated strain energy increased from 5.84 to 21.51,and the post-peak released energy increased from 15.07 to 33.76,indicating that the external energy required for the CGFB sample to fail increased;4)The hydration products,such as C-S-H gel,ettringite,and micro-particle materials,were embedded in the damaged areas of the RSFs,increasing the frictional force at the interface between the RSF and CGFB matrix.The shape variability of the RSFs caused interlocking between the RSFs and the matrix.Both mechanisms strengthened the bridging effect of the RSFs in the CGFB,thereby improving the damage resistance capability of CGFB.The excellent damage resistance occurred at an RSF content of 0.5%;thus,this content is recommended for engineering applications.
文摘This paper examines the design and optimization of optical fibers for high-speed data transmission, emphasizing advancements that maximize efficiency in modern communication networks. Optical fibers, core components of global communication infrastructure, are capable of transmitting data over long distances with minimal loss through principles like total internal reflection. This study explores single-mode and multi-mode fiber designs, providing an overview of key parameters such as core diameter, refractive index profile, and numerical aperture. Mathematical modeling using Maxwell’s equations plays a central role in optimizing fiber performance, helping engineers mitigate challenges like attenuation and dispersion. The paper also discusses advanced techniques, including dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM), which enables terabit-per-second data rates. Case studies in practical applications, such as fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) networks and transoceanic cables, highlight the impact of optimized designs on network performance. Looking forward, innovations in photonic crystal fibers and hollow-core fibers are expected to drive further improvements, enabling ultra-high-speed data transmission. The paper concludes by underscoring the significance of continuous research and development to address challenges in optical fiber technology and support the increasing demands of global communication systems.
基金financed by“Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico”(CNPq)and“Coordenacao de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nivel Superior”(CAPES)-Finance Code 001.
文摘The increase in wood and wood-based products in the construction and furniture sectors has grown exponentially,generating severe environmental and socioeconomic impacts.Particleboard panels have been the main cost-benefit option on the market due to their lightness and lower cost compared to solid wood.However,the synthetic adhesives used in producing traditional particleboard panels cause serious harm to human health.Developing particleboard panels with fibrous waste and natural adhesives could be a sustainable alternative for these sectors.The work aimed to create particleboards with fibrous wastes from the pseudostem of the banana tree(Musa paradisiaca)and different proportions of the natural adhesive cassava starch-CS in replacement of synthetic adhesive urea-formaldehyde-UF.Five experimental groups were manufactured with banana trees and different percentages of UF and CS adhesives,namely(100UF–0%CS),(50%UF–50%CS),(30%UF–70%CS),(10%UF–90%CS)and(0%UF–100%CS).The particleboards had their physical-mechanical properties determined.The apparent density values did not show significant variation between the assessed treatments.Regarding the water absorption and thickness swelling,the best performances were observed for the panels made without the addition of CS(100%UF).For the mechanical properties of static bending strength and Janka hardness,it was identified that adding up to 50%CS did not interfere with the quality of the panels.These analyses show that the particleboard panels produced with wastes of the banana tree bonded with natural CS adhesivemay be an economically viable and environmentally correct alternative,positively strengthening the development of sustainable strategies.
基金supported by the Italian Ministry of University(MIUR)call PRIN 2017 with the project“PANACEA:A technology Platform for the sustainable recovery and advanced use of NAnostructured CEllulose from Agro-food residues”(grant No.2017LEPH3M).
文摘The increasing consciousness about the depletion of natural resources and the sustainability agenda are the major driving forces to try to reuse and recycle organic materials such as agri-food and industrial wastes.In this context,keratin fibers,as a waste from the tannery industry,represent a great opportunity for the development of green functional materials.In this paper,keratin fibers were surface functionalized using the Layer-by-Layer(LbL)deposition technique and then freeze-dried in order to obtain a lightweight,fire-resistant,and sustainable material.The LbL coating,made with chitosan and carboxymethylated cellulose nanofibers,is fundamental in enabling the formation of a self-sustained structure after freeze-drying.The prepared porous fiber networks(density 100 kg m^(-3))display a keratin fiber content greater than 95 wt%and can easily self-extinguish the flame during a flammability test in a vertical configuration.In addition,during forced combustion tests(50 kW m^(-2))the samples exhibited a reduction of 37% in heat release rate and a reduction of 75%in smoke production if compared with a commercial polyurethane foam.The results obtained represent an excellent opportunity for the development of fire-safe sustainable materials based on fiber wastes.
基金Project(2021YFC2900200)supported by the National Key Research and Development Project of ChinaProject(20230203114SF)supported by the Key Research and Development Project of Jilin Province,China。
文摘Basalt fibers/7075 aluminum matrix composites were studied to meet the demand of aluminum alloy drill pipes for material wear resistance.The composites with different basalt fiber additions were prepared by hot pressed sintering and hot extrusion.The mechanical properties as well as friction and wear properties of the composites were studied by microstructure analysis,tensile experiments,friction and wear experiments.The results showed that basalt fibers were oriented and uniformly distributed and led to local grain refinement in the alloy matrix.The hardness and elongation of the composites were improved.The friction coefficient of the composites increased and then decreased,and the maximum wear depth and wear amount decreased,then increased,then decreased again with the growth of basalt fiber addition.Meanwhile,the inclusion of basalt fibers mitigated the uneven wear of the extruded 7075 aluminum alloy.The value of wear depth difference of 7075-0.2BF was the smallest,and that of 7075-2.0BF was close to it.The maximum wear depth and wear volume the 7075-0.2BF and 7075-2.0BF were also the smallest.The inhibition of uneven wear by basalt fibers enhanced of wear resistance for 7075 aluminum alloy,which has reference significance for improving the performance of aluminum alloy drill pipes.
基金funded by the Innovative Research Group project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(52373003).
文摘This study investigates the long-term thermal-oxidative stability and mechanical properties of phenolcontaining phthalonitrile monomer(PN75)and dicyanate ester of bisphenol-A(DCBA)composites reinforced with short carbon fibers T700SC(SCF)within a temperature range of 330375℃.The research focuses on the PN75 monomer and DCBA blend reinforced SCF composites with varying SCF content,examining mass loss and changes in flexural strength after thermal aging for 50 h(h).Results show that the SCF-reinforced composites based on the PN75/DCBA blend consistently outperform the neat blend in flexural strength,both at room temperature and after thermal aging.The introduction of the SCF significantly improves the composites'thermal stability and mechanical retention,with higher SCF content correlating to better performance.Notably,after aging at 350℃,the SCF-reinforced composites based(30%(mass)SCF)retained 88.8%of its flexural strength,compared to 61.1%for the neat blend.Morphological analysis reveals that while thermal aging causes degradation of the PN75/DCBA blend layer on SCF surfaces,the overall composite structure maintains good mechanical properties up to 350℃.At 375℃,significant degradation occurs,yet the composites still retain flexural strengths above 78 MPa.This study demonstrates the potential of the SCF-reinforced composites based on PN75/DCBA blend for high-temperature applications,establishing their upper-temperature limit for long-term use in oxidative environments.
文摘With growing concerns for global warming and environmental issues,the research community has contributed significantly to green technology in the area of material science through the development of natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites(NFRPC).Polymers serve as the matrix in NFRPC,while natural fibers serve as the reinforcing materials.Demand for high-performing materials made with natural resources is growing continuously.Natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites are sustainable biocomposites fabricated with natural fibers embedded with a polymer matrix.They offer a wide range of advantages,including a low weight-to-strength ratio,high flexural strength,damping properties,and resistance to corrosion,wear,and impact.Understanding the basic properties,characteristics,and processing techniques for natural fibers is important to consider their use as raw materials for high-quality biocomposite.Natural fibers come with low density and a high strengthto-weight ratio,allowing them to be a potential reinforcement for low-weight composites.This article attempts to present a comprehensive review of the available natural fibers,their classification,types,structures,physical properties,characteristics,and mechanical properties.Natural fibers are hydrophilic in nature and require physical and chemical treatment prior to their application as reinforcing material.This review will also cover the required physical and chemical treatments of natural fibers for fabricating biocomposites.
