ABSTRACT

The use of natural (cellulose) fibers as reinforcing components in polymeric composite materials has been extensively explored during the last few years (Belgacem, 2008), mainly in response to the economic and environmental concerns associated with the extensive exploitation of petroleum-derived products. The main advantages of natural fibers, when compared with their synthetic or inorganic counterparts, are their biodegradability, high availability, diversity, abundance, renewability, low cost, low energy consumption, low density, high specific strength and modulus (with fibers possessing an adequate aspect ratio), high sound attenuation and comparatively easy processing ability, due to their flexibility and non-abrasive nature (Bledzki, 1999; Pommet, 2008). Additionally, cellulose-based composites are also very attractive materials because of their good mechanical properties sustainability and environmental-friendly connotation, and have been used in a wide range of applications, such as in building, engineering, and automobile industries, as well as for the processing of furniture, packaging materials, recreation boats and toys, among others (Bledzki, 1998).