ABSTRACT
In today’s world, there is an increasing demand for component m aterials that are durable, reliable, and lightweight and have mechanical properties that are significantly better than those of traditional m aterials. At the same time it is preferable if these m aterials are ecofriendly and biodegradable. Recently, attention has been drawn to the use of bionanocomposites in automotive, construction, packaging, and medical applications due to an increased concern for environmental sustainability. Bionanocomposites show unique properties of combining the advantages of natural fillers and organic polymers. Plant fibers are found suitable for reinforcing polymers. They are also biodegradable and are annually renewable,
unlike synthetic materials. They have relatively high strength and stiffness, low cost o f acquisition, and low density and produce low CO2 emissions. Bionanocomposite materials have very strong future prospects, though the present low levels of production, some deficiency in technology, and high cost restrict them from a wide range of applications. This chapter reviews current research efforts, techniques o f production, trends, challenges, and prospects in the field of green composites.
