Natural Fibers for Composites
Natural fibers are gaining prominence as eco-friendly alternatives for reinforcing composite materials, offering renewable and biodegradable options. Derived from sources like jute, hemp, flax, and bamboo, these fibers are appreciated for their low cost, lightweight nature, and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional reinforcements. Natural fiber composites exhibit respectable strength and stiffness, often used in applications where their unique properties, such as vibration damping or acoustic insulation, are advantageous.
Latest Natural Fibers Articles
VIEW ALLŠkoda Motorsport partners with Bcomp for Enyaq RS Race program
Growing on success with the Fabia RS Rally2 racing model, Škoda’s Enyaq RS Race electric SUV design incorporates key flax fiber interior and exterior components.
Read MoreMelker of Sweden accomplishes sea kayak with 100% sustainable composite construction
Built with ampliTex flax fabrics, a solid cork core and plant-based resins, the company’s Värmdö kayak model highlights an environmentally conscious design for paddlers of all levels.
Read MoreDITF, Fiber Engineering highlight biodegradable natural fiber plant pot project
Materials and fabrication process R&D achieves low-cost, compostable plant pots made from invasive hyacinth fibers and a thermoplastic matrix processed via hot press.
Read MoreAsahi Kasei, Aquafil develop 3D printing material combining cellulose nanofiber, recycled PA6
Available as a pellet or filament, the material is said to exhibit formability and strength properties suitable for automotive and aerospace applications.
Read MoreCompoTech spotlights sustainable advancements in BOVENAC project
CompoTech highlights its efforts in the BOVENAC project, specifically for advancements in the design and functionality of composite joint shafts for 4WD vehicles.
Read MoreEva-Last bamboo composite building materials target coastal climates
Eco-friendly natural fiber range of decking, cladding, fencing, railing options ensure durable and long-lasting structures.
Read MoreKnowledge Centers
This CW Tech Days event will explore the technologies, materials, and strategies that can help composites manufacturers become more sustainable.
LEARN MOREExplore the cutting-edge composites industry, as experts delve into the materials, tooling, and manufacturing hurdles of meeting the demands of the promising advanced air mobility (AAM) market. Join us at CW Tech Days to unlock the future of efficient composites fabrication operations.
LEARN MOREDiscover the types of sensors being used in composites, the physics on which they�re based, their installation, promised benefits and challenges, as well as the potential they offer for even further developments in smart structures.
LEARN MORELatest Natural Fibers News And Updates
AmpliTex-constructed solar-powered ferry hits the Adriatic Sea
The Marservis PROeco is a mass transportation marine vessel using Bcomp natural fiber for interior parts in place of standard materials.
Read MoreDITF, RBX Créations develops hemp-based pulp for filament-spun cellulose fibers
Partners present a complete process chain for the development of hemp-based fibers, yarns and fabrics using energy- and resource-saving processes.
Read MoreVolkswagen unveils hemp fiber-based leather alternative with Revoltech
Bio-based surface material made from industrial hemp is being developed and tested for possible use in Volkswagen vehicles from 2028 onward.
Read MoreBcomp natural fiber materials featured in Foiling SuMoth Challenge
Hands-on application and imparted wisdom about biocomposites guided 11 participating student teams in their sustainable foiling moth designs for the three-stage content in July.
Read MoreAlliance of European Flax-Linen & Hemp announces positive outlook for 2024 flax fiber harvest
Flax harvest is anticipated to be on track to meet industry market demand for natural flax fibers.
Read MoreNASCAR unveils BEV prototype featuring natural fiber bodywork
Implementation of Bcomp technical flax fibers in a U.S. motorsport first represents NASCAR’s step toward more sustainable competition vehicles.
Read MoreFeatured Posts
Airbus works to improve the life cycle of composites in future aircraft
This companion article to CW's September 2024 Airbus Illescas plant tour discusses recycling, LCA, biocomposites, Fast Track technologies, qualification and more.
Read MoreJEC World 2024 highlights: Glass fiber recycling, biocomposites and more
CW technical editor Hannah Mason discusses trends seen at this year’s JEC World trade show, including sustainability-focused technologies and commitments, the Paris Olympics amongst other topics.
Read MoreOptimizing machining for composites: Tool designs, processes and Industry 4.0 systems
Hufschmied moves beyond optimized milling and drilling tools to develop SonicShark inline quality control system and Cutting Edge World cloud platform for optimized tool use and processes.
WatchEuropean boatbuilders lead quest to build recyclable composite boats
Marine industry constituents are looking to take composite use one step further with the production of tough and recyclable recreational boats. Some are using new infusible thermoplastic resins.
Read MoreComposites end markets: Boatbuilding and marine (2024)
As the marine market corrects after the COVID-19 upswing, the emphasis is on decarbonization and sustainability, automation and new forms of mobility offering opportunity for composites.
WatchBio-based SiC ceramics from wood polymer composites
Austrian research institute Wood K plus makes 95% silicon carbide ceramics more sustainable (>85% bio/recycled content), enables 3D shapes via extrusion, injection molding and 3D printing.
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