Biocomposites

Many years of cumulative research has been conducted on the usage of fiber-reinforced composites for biomedical application, but no one source exists where this topic is dealt with systematically. This book addresses polymer composites applied to bioengineering in a comprehensive manner.For potential applications to be successful, full advantage must be taken of the materials properties and the manufacturing techniques to meet the needs of biomedical application. This book focuses on fiber-based composites applied to bioengineering. It addresses three main areas. First, it presents a comprehensive survey of biocomposites from the existing literature in various medical applications, paying particular attention to hard-tissue-related implants. Second, mechanical designs and manufacturing aspects of various fibrous polymer matrix composites are described. The third area concerns examples of the design and development of several medical devices and implants using polymer composites.Chapter 1: Introduction (288 KB)

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.

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

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

Many years of cumulative research has been conducted on the usage of fiber-reinforced composites for biomedical application, but no one source exists where this topic is dealt with systematically. This book addresses polymer composites applied to bioengineering in a comprehensive manner.For potential applications to be successful, full advantage must be taken of the materials properties and the manufacturing techniques to meet the needs of biomedical application. This book focuses on fiber-based composites applied to bioengineering. It addresses three main areas. First, it presents a comprehensive survey of biocomposites from the existing literature in various medical applications, paying particular attention to hard-tissue-related implants. Second, mechanical designs and manufacturing aspects of various fibrous polymer matrix composites are described. The third area concerns examples of the design and development of several medical devices and implants using polymer composites.

Biocomposites are composite materials consisting of either a polymer matrix or a filler based on biological resources. They have been widely used in numerous applications such as storage devices, photocatalysts, packaging, furniture, biosensors, energy, construction, the automotive industry, and so on due to their great versatility and satisfactory performance. This book focuses on composites made from natural materials (natural fibers and biopolymers) and relates their physical, mechanical, electrical, structural, and biological characteristics as well as their potential applications in biomedicine, pharmaceuticals, and engineering.

Environmentally friendly sustainable biocomposites are obtained by using reinforcing agents including natural fibers, particulates, nanomaterials, and polymer matrices, where one of these components is bio-based. Advances in Biocomposites and their Applications presents a detailed review of the latest progress in this important research field. The book begins with a brief introduction to the various types of reinforcing agents that are used for fabricating biocomposites. Processing and fabrication methods are then discussed in detail as well as their important mechanical, thermal, chemical, and biological properties. The book then goes on to discuss various mechanisms that can be used to improve these properties as well as various fields of application, including those in automotive, aerospace, marine, building materials, biomaterials, electrical, and electronic engineering sectors. The economic impact, safety, toxicity, and future directions for these materials are also discussed in detail. The book will be a valuable reference resource for academic and industrial researchers, materials scientists, and engineers, and all those working in the fields of polymer science, composite materials, and biocomposites. Presents the latest progress in biocomposites, their fabrication, properties, and applications Includes naturally obtained and bio-derived, renewable resource-based polymers, and reinforcing agents Discusses several major natural fiber-based composite materials Covers aerospace, automobile, packaging, and other lightweight applications

Green Biocomposites for Biomedical Engineering: Design, Properties, and Applications combines emergent research outcomes with fundamental theoretical concepts relevant to processing, properties and applications of advanced green composites in the field of biomedical engineering. The book outlines the design elements and characterization of biocomposites, highlighting each class of biocomposite separately. A broad range of biomedical applications for biocomposites is then covered, with a final section discussing the ethics and safety regulations associated with manufacturing and the use of biocomposites. With contributions from eminent editors and recognized authors around the world, this book is a vital reference for researchers in biomedical engineering, materials science and environmental science, both in industry and academia. Provides comprehensive information regarding current advances in the interdisciplinary field of eco-friendly green composite materials for biomedical applications Offers coverage of state-of-the-art physics-based advanced models used in composites Lists a broad range of characterization techniques and biomedical applications