چکیده
Abstract
A single agro-based fiber is a three dimensional, biopolymer composite composed
mainly of cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin with minor amounts of free
sugars, starch, protein, extractives, and inorganics. The performance of a given fiber
used in a given application depends on several factors including chemical composition,
physical properties, the interaction of a fiber within the composite matrix,
and how that fiber or fiber/matrix performs under a given set of environmental
conditions. In order to expand the use of agro-fibers for composites, it is essential
that information is available on fiber characteristics and the factors which effect
performance of that fiber. In order to do this, it is necessary to develop a detailed
data base of chemical and physical properties of the vast variety of natural fibers
that are potentially available in the world. It is also necessary to understand the
factors which effect the performance of a given fiber in a given application. This
chapter will deal with the chemical and physical properties of agro-fibers and factors
which effect fiber properties.
