Author(s)

Samson O. Adeosun, G. I. Lawal, Sambo A. Balogun, Emmanuel I. Akpan

Department of Materials and Production Engineering, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria.
Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria.

Recently, attention has been drawn to the use of bio-reinforced composites in automotive, construction, packaging and medical applications due to increased concern for environmental sustainability. Green polymer nanocomposites show unique properties of combining the advantages of natural fillers and organic polymers. Plant fibers are found suitable to reinforce polymers. They have relatively high strength and stiffness, low cost of acquisition, low density and produce low CO₂ emission. They are also biodegradable and are annually renewable compared to other fibrous materials. Organic polymers on the other hand, are desirable because they are either recyclable or biodegradable without causing environmental hazards. This paper reviews current research efforts, techniques of production, trends, challenges and prospects in the field of green nanocomposites.

bio-reinforced composites; organic polymers; plant fibers; mechanical properties; environmental friendly

S. Adeosun, G. Lawal, S. Balogun and E. Akpan, "Review of Green Polymer Nanocomposites," Journal of Minerals and Materials Characterization and Engineering, Vol. 11 No. 4, 2012, pp. 385-416. doi: 10.4236/jmmce.2012.114028.