Biocomposites For High Performance Applications

Biocomposites for High-Performance Applications: Current Barriers and Future Needs Towards Industrial Development focuses on future research directions that will make biocomposites a successful player in the field of high-strength structural applications. With contributions from eminent academic researchers and industrial experts who have first-hand experience on the advantages/disadvantages of biocomposites in their daily lives, the book examines the industrial development of biocomposite products, identifying the current barriers and their future industrial needs Topics covered include: recent research activities from academia in the biocomposite research field, valuable thoughts and insights from biocomposite manufacturing industries, the strength and weaknesses of biocomposite products, and the practical issues that need to be addressed to reach the next level. Highlights the practical issues involved in biocomposites research Contains contributions from eminent academic researchers and industrial experts Discusses recent research activities from academia in the biocomposite research field, along with valuable thoughts and insights from biocomposite manufacturing industries

Since synthetic plastics derived from fossil resources are mostly non-biodegradable, many academic and industrial researchers have shifted their attention toward bio-based materials, which are more eco-friendly. Bio-Based Composites for High-Performance Materials: From Strategy to Industrial Application provides an overview of the state-of-art in bio-based composites. The book integrates knowledge from various disciplines including plant science, materials science, polymer chemistry, chemical engineering, and nanotechnology. It discusses the raw materials used in bio-based composites, basic design principles, properties, applications, and life cycle assessments. The book also presents a strategic and policy-oriented view of these composites and considers the costs of retrofitting existing chemical production plants for bio-based composite manufacture. It is a definitive resource on bio-composites for academics, regulatory agencies, research and development communities, and industries worldwide.

Recent developments in high performance thermoplastic resins and their composites are described in this book, and the benefits and limitations of these emerging materials are assessed for aerospace and other applications. Discussions on the performance of neat and continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic resins in terms of their properties and environmental and chemical resistance are provided.

Biocomposites: Design and Mechanical Performance describes recent research on cost-effective ways to improve the mechanical toughness and durability of biocomposites, while also reducing their weight. Beginning with an introduction to commercially competitive natural fiber-based composites, chapters then move on to explore the mechanical properties of a wide range of biocomposite materials, including polylactic, polyethylene, polycarbonate, oil palm, natural fiber epoxy, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polyvinyl acetate, polyurethane, starch, flax, poly (propylene carbonate)-based biocomposites, and biocomposites from biodegradable polymer blends, natural fibers, and green plastics, giving the reader a deep understanding of the potential of these materials. Describes recent research to improve the mechanical properties and performance of a wide range of biocomposite materials Explores the mechanical properties of a wide range of biocomposite materials, including polylactic, polyethylene, polycarbonate, oil palm, natural fiber epoxy, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polyvinyl acetate, and polyurethane Evaluates the potential of biocomposites as substitutes for petroleum-based plastics in industries such as packaging, electronic, automotive, aerospace and construction Includes contributions from leading experts in this field

Since synthetic plastics derived from fossil resources are mostly non-biodegradable, many academic and industrial researchers have shifted their attention toward bio-based materials, which are more eco-friendly. Bio-Based Composites for High-Performance Materials: From Strategy to Industrial Application provides an overview of the state-of-art in bio-based composites. The book integrates knowledge from various disciplines including plant science, materials science, polymer chemistry, chemical engineering, and nanotechnology. It discusses the raw materials used in bio-based composites, basic design principles, properties, applications, and life cycle assessments. The book also presents a strategic and policy-oriented view of these composites and considers the costs of retrofitting existing chemical production plants for bio-based composite manufacture. It is a definitive resource on bio-composites for academics, regulatory agencies, research and development communities, and industries worldwide.

Biocomposites are exciting, new materials which have experienced a renaissance in the 21st century in response to the societal concerns regarding global warming and environmental pollution, shifting the focus towards materials made from renewable, biodegradable and recyclable resources. As a consequence, research and development of these materials has increased in recent years, which is reflected in their applications in various industries, particularly the automotive and construction industries. These materials are estimated to experience a compound annual growth rate of 11.7% in the next five years, which is almost double that of conventional composite materials over the same time period. This book attempts to increase the knowledge base of these materials, particularly in terms of their properties, performance and applications. It contains precisely referenced chapters, complete with illustrations and tables that maximise the readers insight into the current state-of-the-art applications on biocomposites. The chapters have been written by the leading experts of this field with various backgrounds and expertise. Apart from review articles, the book also contains chapters on recent developments in this field. A distinguishing feature of this book is the emphasis on the uses of these materials in biomedical applications. This reference book is an invaluable source of guidance for researchers, academics and entrepreneurs working in the field of biocomposites.

This book will include papers on recent research carried out in the field of metal-matrix composites (MMCs). Processing, microstructure, and mechanical properties of MMCs and unreinforced matrix alloys will be covered with a focus on aluminum, titanium, nickel, and copper MMCs. Those involved in the research of MMCs and unreinforced alloys, particularly in aerospace, space, and automotive materials research, will find this volume indispensible. From Materials Science & Technology 2003 to be held in Chicago, Illinois, November 9-12, 2003.