BIOCOMPOSITE MATERIALS – AN INSIGHT

Koushiki Majumdar, Shaurya Anand, Suparno Das and Ranjay Kumar Thakur*
Department of Food Technology, Haldia Institute of Technology, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of
Technology, West Bengal-721657, India
Corresponding E-mail: ktranjaybt2007@gmail.com

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT The production of bio-composite materials typically involves the use of
 The Compression Molding Technique is a popular
technique for manufacturing biocomposite materials due
various thermoplastic composites, including polystyrene (PS), polyethylene
to its simplicity, flexibility, and ability to produce high-
(PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinylchloride (PVC) alongwith
volume parts. In this process, dry fibers and a
thermoset resins. A multitude of parameters influence the mechanical
biopolymer matrix are placed in a heated mold and
properties of the final material, with the most significant being the
compressed under high pressure. The heat and pressure
properties of the fiber and matrix materials, as well as the compatibility
cause the biopolymer matrix to melt and flow,
between the matrix and the fiber bundle.
impregnating the reinforcing fibers and forming a
Fibre Cellulose Hemicellulose Lignin Tensile Elastic Production
Strength Modulus
composite part. This process can be used for both hot
(wt%) (wt%) (wt%) Method
(MPa) (GPa)
and cold compression molding of biocomposites, with
BAGASSE 44.1 31.8 1.1-26.6 24.4 1.8 Compression
variations in the temperature and pressure conditions
Moulding depending on the specific materials used. Overall,
BAMBOO 28.8-56.7 17.2-43.8 1.1-26.6 37-50 4.34-5.57 Compression compression molding is a highly efficient and effective
Moulding method for producing biocomposite materials with
CORN 41.7 46 7.4 46-72 - Injection desirable properties such as renewability,
Moulding
biodegradability, and environmental friendliness.
COTTON 82.7-92 5.7-6 0 35-45 - Hand Lay-Up
FLAX 74.93 10.37 2.62 29±1.5-29±0.8 5±0.4- Compression
7.6±0.9 Molding
JUTE 61-71.5 13.6-20.4 12-13 10.9±0.1- 0.25±0.02- Injection
12.8±0.3 0.26±0.01 Molding

Table of Mechanical and Chemical Properties

METHODS
 The Injection Molding Technique is a popular method for producing
high-performance biocomposite materials due to its ability to produce
complex shapes with excellent accuracy and repeatability. In this
process, biopolymer pellets and natural fibers are mixed and fed into a
INTRODUCTION heated barrel where the biopolymer is melted and the fibers are
uniformly dispersed. The resulting melt is then injected under high
 A Biocomposite is a composite material formed by a pressure into a mold cavity, where it cools and solidifies to form a part
APPLICATIONS
matrix (resin) and a reinforcement of natural fibers. with the desired shape and properties. The injection molding process AREA APPLICATION COMPANY
 They are defined as biocompatible and/or eco-friendly can be optimized for different biocomposite materials, allowing for Automobile Rear storage shelf/panel, door Opel, Volkswagen,
composites & consist of a large variety of organic and Industries panels, spare tyre lining, noise Audi, BMW, General
precise control of factors such as temperature, pressure, and mold
insulation panels, boot lining, Motors, Toyota, Volvo,
inorganic components. design. seat backs, internal engine Mercedes, Renault,
 They are a renewable source, cheap, and in certain cases cover, sun visor, bumper, wheel Mitsubishi, Rover,
completely recyclable. box and other parts of Lotus
 Biocomposites are biodegradable and cause less pollution automobiles
can minimize the environmental impact of the composite
Packaging Cosmetics, laptop casings, FS Korea, Rexam, hp,
production
bottles, food and beverages, Apple, Thomson
 They are suited to a wide range of applications, such as mobile casings, electronic goods Lamp Bulb
packaging, building, automobiles, aerospace, military packaging, laptop and mobile
applications, electronics, consumer products, and the packaging, projector and
medical industry voltage stabilizer cover

CHEMICAL PROPERTIES Sports Safety helmets, surfing boards, -

Biocomposites composed of natural biofibers possess
several desirable properties, including renewability, low
weight, energy efficiency, biodegradability, and
environmental friendliness. These environmentally
friendly materials have received considerable attention in
various research domains. Key considerations in the
creation of biodegradable composites include selecting the
optimal blend of lignocellulosic fibers and biopolymer
matrix, employing suitable surface treatments when
required, and utilizing economical and expedient
fabrication techniques.
 The Hand Lay-Up Technique is the oldest and most
straightforward method for producing composites through open
molding. This process involves manually placing dry fibers in the
form of woven, knitted, stitched, or bonded fabrics into the mold. A
brush is then utilized to apply the resin matrix to the reinforcing
material. Next, hand rollers are used to roll the wet composite to
enhance the interaction between the matrix and reinforcement,
ensure even resin distribution, and achieve the desired thickness.
Lastly, the laminates are allowed to cure under typical atmospheric
conditions.
rackets, polo balls, bicycle
frame
Construction Door panels, decking, railing, -
window frames
FUTURE TREND & CHALLENGES
This poster provides a concise overview of the mechanical and
chemical properties and potential applications of bio-
composites. The research indicates that bio-composites exhibit
tremendous potential as materials for future applications in
various industrial sectors, particularly in the automotive
industry, which plays a leading role in technological and
industrial development. The significant advantages of bio-
composites, including renewability, sustainability, and
biodegradability, make them ideal candidates for use as "future
materials." However, issues such as moisture absorption and low
adhesion characteristics need to be addressed to replace
conventional materials or synthetic composites. While
reinforcing synthetic matrices with natural fibers can provide a
temporary solution, it is essential to utilize both natural fibers
and natural resins to manufacture completely recyclable,
biodegradable, and environmentally friendly materials. As
people become increasingly aware of the benefits of bio-
composite materials, legislation will drive the transition from
conventional materials to sustainable alternatives.

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