Review on flammability of biofibres and biocomposites

Abstract

The subject on flammability properties of natural fibre-reinforced biopolymer composites has not been broadly researched. This is not only evidenced by the minimal use of biopolymer composites and/or blends in different engineering areas where fire risk and hazard to both human and structures is of critical concern, but also the limited amount of published scientific work on the subject. Therefore, it is necessary to expand knowledge on the flammability properties of biopolymers and add value in widening the range of their application. This paper reviews the literature on the recent developments on flammability studies of bio-fibres, biopolymers and natural fibre-reinforced biocomposites. It also covers the different types of flame retardants (FRs) used and their mechanisms, and discusses the principles and methodology of various flammability testing techniques.

Keywords: Biopolymers; Composite; Flame retardants; Flammability; Natural fibre.