| Abstract: |
Lignocellulosic fibres derived from agricultural residues (e.g., wheat straw, rice husks, bagasse, corn cobs) are rapidly emerging as viable, low— cost, sustainable reinforcements in polymer composites, offering an environmentally responsible alternative to synthetic glass or carbon fibres. This report synthesizes current knowledge on their composition, properties, processing methods, performance metrics, and industrial adoption. Key findings indicate that treated lignocellulosic fibres can achievetensile strengths of 20–40 MPa in polymer matrices, with density reductions of 30–50% compared to glass—fibre composites. However, challenges persist in interfacial adhesion, moisture sensitivity, and feedstock variability. With optimized surface treatments (alkali, silane, coupling agents) and advanced processing (compression moulding, extrusion, injection), these bio—composites are gaining traction in automotive, construction, and packaging sectors. Romania shows limited commercial—scale manufacturing of agro—waste composites, with activity centred on research and pilot projects rather than widespread industry. Romanian research on agro—waste composites is primarily academic, led by universities and institutes focusing on lignocellulosic wastes like wheat straw and sunflower husks for sustainable materials. These efforts emphasize prototypes for construction panels and bioplastics, aligning with national circular economy goals, developing prototypes using local lignocellulosic wastes (e.g., wheat straw, sunflower husks) with recycled polypropylene, achieving viable mechanical properties via treatments. The paper concludes with strategic recommendations for scaling production, standardizing feedstocks, and integrating circular economy principles to accelerate market penetration, using right processing method for agro—waste composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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