naturfibre

Naturfibre, or natural fibre, refers to fibers produced from renewable biological sources. They are typically classified as plant-based fibers such as cotton, flax (linen), jute, hemp, sisal, and bamboo, and animal-based fibers such as wool and silk. Natural fibres are used in textiles, composites, and other applications because of their light weight, good specific strength, and potential for biodegradability, but their performance and quality can vary with species, growing conditions, and processing.

Most plant fibres are composed mainly of cellulose, with smaller amounts of hemicellulose and lignin; animal fibres are protein-based. The production chain includes cultivation or harvesting, retting or mechanical separation, decortication, and spinning or processing into yarns. For composite use, fibres may be chopped or used as continuous mats and combined with polymers to form natural fibre-reinforced polymers (NFRPs).

Applications include textiles such as clothing and upholstery; composites for automotive interiors, construction panels, and sporting goods; as well as geotextiles and paper reinforcement.

Environmental aspects: natural fibres generally require lower energy to produce than many synthetics and are biodegradable. However, water use, land use, and agrochemical inputs can be significant, and properties can vary with moisture uptake and aging. Treatments and surface modification can improve adhesion to polymers and reduce moisture sensitivity.

Challenges include variability in fibre quality, moisture sensitivity, and competition with synthetic fibers on cost. Standards, processing technologies, and supply chains are developing to improve consistency and recycling options.