Progress and Constraints of Natural Fiber Reinforced Composites—A Review

Global biocomposite market growth shows the increasing interest of the leading companies and the research community in the use and study of natural fiber‐reinforced composites. The solution adopted by integrating biocomposite materials into engineering structures promotes the use of unlimited natural resources. This study aims to emphasize essential characteristics of natural fibers. A detailed comparison of mechanical properties under various types of loads of composite materials consisting of a natural fiber‐reinforced polymeric matrix is provided. Recent progress regarding surface treatments applied in order to minimize the effect of water absorption on the behavior of biocomposite materials is presented. Outcomes regarding the effect of replacing the synthetic matrix with biopolymers are highlighted. Finally, the importance of further research into the possibility of inserting natural fiber‐reinforced composite laminates into aviation structures is motivated.