ABSTRACT
Interest in using lignocellulosic materials, which predominantly consist of cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose, in the production of plastic composites has gained momentum in recent years. The push is attributed to the growing demand for lightweight, highperformance materials together with diminishing natural fiber resources, wood in particular, and escalating costs of raw materials and energy. Although lignocellulosic fibers are abundantly available, they have not been fully exploited, principally because of a lack of adequate technology development. The impetus to utilize such fibrous materials is further dictated by environmental pressure groups and stringent environmental laws.
