Sudies on Natural Fibre Reinforced Composites

Composite materials are the most advanced and adaptable engineering materials. A composite is a heterogeneous material created by the synthetic assembly of two or more components constituting reinforcing material and a matrix resinous material to obtain specific characteristics and properties. Renewable resources in the field of fibre reinforced polymeric materials with their new range of applications represent an important basis in order to fulfill the ecological objective of creating eco-friendly materials. Because of their low density, renewable origin, relatively high specific strength, light weight, unlimited availability, low price, resistance to corrosion and abrasion, ease of processing, good mechanical performance and problem-free disposal, natural fibres offer a real alternative to the technical reinforcing fibres presently available. Increasing concern about global warming and depleting petroleum reserves have made scientists to focus more on the use of natural fibres such as bagasse, coir, etc. In this connection, an investigation has been carried out to make use of a natural fibre as a reinforcing material with polyester resin as a matrix material.