Thermal and flame retardancy properties of thermoplastics/natural fiber biocomposites

Environmental issues, such as global warming, have been increasing, due to the rapid consumption of petrol-based resources. Therefore green composites based on natural fibers and biodegradable polymers have rapidly developed and have found wide applications as building and transport materials because of their high specific strength and eco-friendliness. However, compared with traditional materials like metal and ceramics, these plant fiber-based biocomposites are less thermally stable and much more flammable, due to their chemical structure features. Thus it is extremely necessary to enhance the thermal stability and flame retardancy to ensure their safe applications. This chapter focuses on discussing types of natural fibers, biopolymers, and currently available flame retardants, the thermal properties and flammability of natural fiber-based biocomposites and possible flame retardancy mechanisms. Although great advances have been made with regards to enhancing thermal stability and flame retardancy of these biocomposites, there are still some challenges to be addressed.