Comparative Sustainability and Performance Assessment of Corn Husk-Based Materials for Interior Finishes: A Systematic Literature Review of Bio-Based Surface Alternatives

This systematic literature review demonstrates that corn husk-based materials possess significant potential as sustainable alternatives for interior finishing applications. The findings indicate that, although corn husk generally exhibits lower mechanical performance and industrial maturity than established bio-based materials such as bamboo, hemp, kenaf, and jute, it offers distinct advantages in terms of agricultural waste valorization, resource efficiency, circular economy integration, and environmental sustainability. The review challenges the conventional assumption that material competitiveness is determined primarily by technical performance, showing instead that waste-derived materials can provide broader sustainability benefits through their contribution to resource recovery, waste reduction, and low-carbon material systems. Furthermore, the natural texture, organic appearance, and biophilic qualities of corn husk create additional design value that supports its application in non-structural interior finishes such as wall panels, decorative surfaces, acoustic systems, and furniture cladding.