Kenaf fibre and its bio-based composites: a conspectus

Abstract

Kenaf fibre is a good reinforcement in fibre polymer composites due to its high strength and elastic modulus, high stiffness, low density, low cost and eco-efficient, less health hazards, renewability, good mechanical and thermal properties, and biodegradability. It is traditionally used for rope, twine, fish net and sacking materials. Recently, it was observed that kenaf fibre had huge potentials to replacing synthetic fibre in composites due to the rising environmental and ecological issues, thus this awareness has motivated efforts for the advancement of new innovative bio-based composites incorporating kenaf fibre for various end-use structural applications. This paper presents an overview of the development made so far in the area of kenaf fibre and its composites in terms of chemical and micro-structural properties, mechanical properties, dimensional stability, thermal stability, product development and application. Some fundamental issues and suggestions for further research in this area are also discussed.