Processing and Fabrication of Sisal Fibers Reinforced Composites: A Conceptual Review

This study provides a short, succinct and convincing review of the studies researchers have performed on sisal natural fibre and its applicability for selection and use as a potentially viable and economically affordable reinforcement for engineering composite materials. As the technologies are developing rapidly day by day and the demand for developing and manufacturing eco-friendly materials is also increasing, the use of the bio-degradable reinforcements, like bamboo, sisal, jute, cotton and hemp, is of utmost concern. Made evident from a few to several other research studies, in comparison to the fabricated natural fibre-reinforced composite materials, the sisal fibres indicate considerable results that favour their applicability. Environmental contamination happens in various aspects of industrial processes, such as production, disposal, and recycling of synthetic fiber-reinforced composites due to their widespread selection and use. Sisal fiber is a good example of an environmentally acceptable natural fiber having significant mechanical qualities, which can be utilized for reinforcing a variety of polymer matrices. This review article provides a coverage of the intricacies specific to the manufacture of sisal fiber-reinforced composite materials, variables that impact their characteristics, surface treatments used to prevent the presence of flaws, and mechanical tests required to determine their strength. Prior testing attempts on the sisal fiber-reinforced composites are addressed in order to aid in future research to reveal the advantages and usage of such a material in a more effective and efficient manner. The current era of rapidly changing manufacturing environment and technological advancements highlighting such scenarios calls for a substantial amount of research to be performed on: (i) structure of sisal fibre, (ii) sisal fibre extraction/preparatory processes, and (iii) surface treatments of sisal fibres combined with other matrices.

Keywords: Mechanical properties, Mechanical testing, Natural fibers, Natural composites, Preparation process, Sisal fiber, Surface treatments, Sisal fiber polymer matrix composites.