
Fiber reinforced polymers (FRPs) are a relatively new category of composite materials that combine stiffness and strength with weight reduction and corrosion resistance. Known also as polymer matrix composites (PMCs), these fiber-reinforced materials typically contain glass, carbon, basalt, aramid, or asbestos. In recent years, however, scientists and engineers have begun experimenting with fibers from plant-based materials such as flax, hemp, jute, sisal, and now coconut.
Bridges, Buildings, and Bioplastics
According to a May 2012 study by members of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Auckland (New Zealand), coconut fibers have the highest toughness among natural materials. In an era of budgetary constraints, that's good news for civil engineers who are seeking cost-effective alternatives to steel. Coconut fiber reinforced concrete (CFRC) may also strengthen members of the building and construction industry who want to "go green" without breaking the bottom line.
What about coconut fibers and bioplastics? Unlike traditional plastics, which are made from petroleum and fossil fuels, bio-based materials have a smaller carbon footprint. They are partially or wholly derived from renewable resources, but not necessarily biodegradable. Today, applications for bioplastics include everything from cell phone cases to food and beverage packaging. Given the strength of coconut husks, could coir join corn on the material science menu?
Focus on the Future
At Ford Motor company, the future already has a tropical flavor. As Plastics News reported in the fall of 2011, the American automaker began studying the use of coconut husks (coir) as a PMC reinforcement. The Blue Oval is already using wheat straw as a filler in door trim bins, soybean oil-based urethane foam in seats, and a castor oil blend in instrument panels.
By using coconut fibers to reinforce plastic auto parts, Ford can reduce the amount of petroleum-based plastic that's needed while lightening part weight. In the Focus Electric, coconut fibers are used in a 50-50 blend with polypropylene to reinforce the trunk floor. According to Natural Fiber Composites, Inc., one of Ford's supply chain partners, the company's Cocofelt material was runner-up at the 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers Automotive Innovation Awards.
The Future of FRPs
What do members of the CR4 community think about bioplastics? How about fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) that use coconut husks? On LinkedIn, members of the Society of Plastics Engineer group have been discussing this topic. What about the engineers and technical professionals who contribute to the many great discussions here?
About the Author: Doug Sharpe is the President of Elasto Proxy, Inc. (Boisbriand, Quebec, Canada), supplier of sealing solutions and custom-fabricated rubber and plastic parts to a variety of industries, including automotive and construction.
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