Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer in Automotive Application: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Efforts to develop effective and innovative materials are increasingly being developed by researchers, especially in the development and utilization of NFRP (Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer) in the automotive sector due to increased demand and increased ecological awareness. The purpose of this literature review article is to provide up-to-date information on the application of NFRP and plastic recycling in the automotive sector as well as consideration of selecting natural fibers for use as reinforcing composites in the automotive sector. This literature review focuses on the progress of the development of polymeric materials applied in the automotive field. Referring to defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 30 articles in polymer composite studies published between 2015 and 2020 were selected for further investigation. The analysis of selected studies revealed that several leading car manufacturers have produced and developed products from NFRP or recycled plastics with natural fiber reinforcement because they are relatively cheap, lightweight, and able to reduce exhaust emissions. The great potential of using NFRP materials and recycled plastics in the automotive sector presents a future challenge, namely the increasing need for natural fiber in the long term which will certainly have an impact on ecosystems and biodiversity.

Tensile Behavior of 3D Printed Polylactic Acid (PLA) Based Composites Reinforced with Natural Fiber

“…Therefore, it is recommended to investigate different parameters that could improve the printing quality and influence the printed NFRCs’ mechanical performance, such as processing temperatures, layer orientation, deposition speed, infill pattern, and layer thickness [ 80 ]. Furthermore, our results warrant further research of NFRCs made of printed PLA reinforced with natural henequen fibers for construction and automotive applications [ 16 , 81 ]. These studies should include strategies to improve fiber–matrix adhesion and reduce fiber agglomeration during the filament extrusion process and defects during the printing process.…”

Renewed interest in biopolymer composites: incorporation of renewable, plant-sourced fibers

“…Abaca fibers, due to its nature buoyancy, resistance to salt water damage, and low swelling, are primarily used in marine ropes but also finds used within interior components of vehicles. 43,46,47 Perhaps most environmentally impactful is their use as a replacement for asbestos in vehicle friction brakes. 48 Paglicawan et al reported that plasma-treatment of abaca fabric in an epoxy matrix was required for sufficient matrix-fiber cohesion.…”

Bio-based Polymers: A Mini Review

“…The proportion of bioplastics produced for packaging in 2020 was 47%, 11 only slightly higher than 40% for conventional plastics. 131 Myth: The production of bio-based polymers takes up much agricultural land and impacts human and animal food production.…”