Natural fiber composites under impact loading: A critical review

Mulenga, Timothy K. and Mavinkere Rangappa, Sanjay and Siengchin, Suchart (2025) Natural fiber composites under impact loading: A critical review. EXPRESS POLYMER LETTERS, 19 (5). pp. 470-493. ISSN 1788-618X

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Abstract

Natural fiber composites (NFC) have emerged as promising sustainable alternatives to conventional synthetic materials due to the increasing environmental concerns and unsustainable reliance on depleting petroleum resources. NFCs offer various advantages, such as reduced costs, low density, biodegradability, and good specific mechanical properties. However, their impact resistance remains a crucial factor that greatly influences their suitability for sectors like automotive, construction, and aerospace, where impact loading is prevalent. This review comprehensively analyzes the impact resistance of NFCs, aiming to elucidate the factors governing their behavior under varying impact loading conditions. The study delves into the influence of key parameters such as fiber type, matrix properties, and fiber-matrix adhesion on the impact response of NFCs. Different impact loading methods, including low-velocity impact and high-velocity impact, are examined, highlighting their distinct effects on NFC failure mechanisms. Furthermore, the review investigates the effectiveness of various methods employed to enhance the impact strength of NFCs. Finally, it identifies current challenges and limitations associated with impact-resistant NFCs and outlines potential future research directions to overcome these obstacles and unlock the full potential of these sustainable materials.

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