Hybridisation of carbon and natural fibers for sustainable composites in automotive applications

Abstract

Face to the challenge of reducing the CO2 footprint of its products, the automotive industry needs solutions to reduce its materials impact, from production to recycling. With this purpose, natural fibers, particularly cellulosic reinforcements, have been used intensively by the sector in semi-structural components throughout the last decade. However, low mechanical properties and moisture intake reduce the chances to exploit the low carbon footprint weight saving prospects and good crashworthiness that makes these materials valuable