Lignocellulosic Reinforcements in Polymer and Cementitious Matrices: Comprehensive Analysis of Mechanical Performance, Surface Interactions, and Application Potential

Abstract

Background: Natural fibres and lignocellulosic materials have re-emerged as promising reinforcements in polymeric and cementitious composites due to their renewable origin, low density, and favorable mechanical-to-weight ratios (Kadolph, 2016; Sanjay et al., 2016). However, variability in fibre morphology, interfacial bonding, moisture sensitivity, and processing constraints hinder wider industrial adoption (Kumar et al., 2019; Peças et al., 2018). This study synthesizes extant empirical and theoretical knowledge to present an integrative perspective on the dynamic mechanical performance, surface morphology effects, and application-specific design considerations for natural fibre composites.

Methods: A critical synthesis methodology was adopted, combining comparative literature analysis with mechanistic interpretation anchored in the physico-chemical characteristics of lignocellulosic fibres. The analysis emphasises fibre linear density and strength standards (ASTM D1577, ASTM D3822), microstructural modification techniques, dynamic viscoelastic responses, and case studies spanning cementitious composites and soft body armour development (ASTM D1577, Shlykov et al., 2022; Mawkhlieng & Majumdar, 2019).

Results: The assembled body of evidence demonstrates that natural fibres such as sisal, kenaf, ramie, and recycled cellulose derivatives can effectively enhance stiffness and energy-absorption characteristics in both polymeric and cementitious matrices, provided that fibre treatment and surface engineering are optimised (Bahja et al., 2021; Abbas et al., 2022; Kusmono et al., 2022). Dynamic performance exhibits strong dependence on fibre fraction, orientation, and interfacial damping properties; hybridization strategies and nanoscale cellulose inclusion improve impact resistance and dispersion (Shlykov et al., 2022; Mahesh et al., 2021).

Conclusions: Natural fibre composites present a viable pathway toward sustainable, high-performance materials across diverse industrial sectors. Overcoming challenges—standardisation of testing, moisture mitigation, and scale-up of fibre processing—requires concerted multidisciplinary research and industrial partnerships. The article concludes with a detailed research agenda focused on interfacial science, long-term durability studies, and application-driven design frameworks.