Emerging trends in flame retardancy of biofibers, biopolymers, biocomposites, and bionanocomposites

Abstract

Recent advancements in natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites have engineered the need to procure alternatives to replace metals in automotives, construction, aerospace, defense, electronics, and gas and oil industries. However, application versatility of biomaterials has been limited due to poor flame retardancy. In line with the new CO2 emission policy and global ban on halogenated flame retardants, the automotive and aerospace industries require environmentally benign materials with nonhalogenated flame retardancy, that can provide the high FPI, and low FGI, required to reduce fatalities and destruction of properties during real fire situations. Researchers, therefore, postulate that versatility of application of biomaterials can be attained by improving their fire retardant properties. Hence, this paper reviews novel emerging technologies used in achieving flame retardancy in biofibers, biopolymers, biocomposites, and bionanocomposites.