Polymer Composites

The first systematic reference on the topic with an emphasis on the characteristics and dimension of the reinforcement. This third and final volume, authored by leading researchers in the field from academia, government, industry, as well as private research institutions around the globe, focuses on biocomposites. As such, it discusses the state of the art before moving on to investigate the synthesis, structure and properties of natural and synthetic biopolymers, as well as the preparation, microstructure and properties of biofibers, together with their surface modification, characterization, and manufacturing. Following an introduction to the manufacturing and processing of biocomposites, the authors look at biofiber reinforced thermoset and thermoplastic composites, hybrid biofiber, textile and bionanocomposites. The last section deals with fully biodegradable green composites and their application and future scope in terms of environmental effects, biodegradation and life cycle analysis.