A Critical Review on Hygrothermal and Sound Absorption Behavior of Natural-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites

Author: mycolabadmin
11/4/2022
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Summary

This review examines how natural fibers combined with plastics create materials that insulate buildings thermally and acoustically while being environmentally friendly. The study shows that treating natural fibers with chemicals reduces their water absorption, which makes these composites more durable. These materials perform as well as or better than traditional synthetic insulators while having a much lower environmental impact and carbon footprint.

Background

Natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites are emerging as eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic materials due to environmental concerns and carbon footprint reduction. However, these composites suffer from high hydrophilicity and poor interfacial compatibility between polymer matrices and natural reinforcements. Additionally, noise pollution and energy consumption in buildings necessitate materials with dual thermal and sound insulation properties.

Objective

This review critically examines the hygrothermal and sound absorption behavior of natural-fiber-reinforced polymer composites. The study synthesizes preparation methods, moisture absorption characteristics, and acoustic performance of various natural fiber composites to identify strategies for improving their durability and functional properties.

Results

Natural fibers demonstrate varying moisture absorption rates depending on treatment methods, fiber type, and environmental conditions. Carbon nanofiber reinforcement, alkali-silane treatment, and surface modifications significantly reduced water uptake and improved hygrothermal durability. Sound absorption performance correlated positively with material thickness, porosity, and density, with natural fibers showing comparable or superior performance to synthetic insulators.

Conclusion

Natural-fiber-reinforced polymer composites represent viable sustainable alternatives to synthetic materials for thermal and acoustic insulation applications. Surface treatments and hybrid reinforcement strategies effectively reduce hydrophilicity and enhance interfacial bonding, improving long-term durability. Further research into coupled heat-moisture transfer modeling and optimization of fiber-matrix interfaces is needed to maximize commercial applicability.

Published in:Polymers (Basel),
Study Type:Review,
Source: PMID: 36365720