Improving the utility, performance, and durability of wood- and bio-based composites

This paper briefly reviews the state of the art in various types of wood- and bio-based composites, summarizes recent advances, and then discusses future possibilities for improving the durability of wood- and bio-based composites.

Abstract

Wood can be processed and reformed into a number of different biocomposites. We aimed at reviewing the state of the art in various types of wood- and bio-based composites. Review of utility, performance and durability of wood- and bio-based composites. The advanced biocomposites will:

• Combine wood, natural biofibers, and non-biomaterials to create synergistic hybrid materials that far exceed performance capabilities of current biocomposites;
• Be renewable, recyclable, and totally sustainable;
• Provide superior performance and serviceability exceeding performance of current biocomposites;
• Be more durable, dimensionally stable, moisture proof, and fire resistant;
• Be less expensive to produce and use (over the life cycle of use) than the materials they replace

The next generation of advanced wood- and bio-based composites must provide high-performance construction and specialty products that simultaneously promote resource and environmental sustainability and provide advanced performance, long-term performance, enhanced durability, and value.