A Comprehensive Review on Plant and Animal Fiber Reinforced Composites: Experimental & Theoretical Approaches to Interfacial Strength Optimization and Application

Natural fiber-reinforced composites (NFRCs) have emerged as sustainable alternatives to conventional synthetic materials across numerous industries, including automotive, aerospace, construction, and consumer goods. Their lightweight nature, biodegradability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental compatibility make them highly attractive for next-generation engineering applications. However, despite these benefits, NFRCs face critical challenges such as fiber degradation, moisture sensitivity, and weak interfacial bonding between the natural fibers and the matrix material, which can significantly compromise composite performance. This comprehensive review combines the latest experimental and theoretical research on improving the interfacial strength of NFRCs. It analyzes how plant, animal, and microorganism-based fibers interact with various matrices, including polymers, metals, and ceramics. It outlines strategies for enhancing compatibility, durability, and mechanical integrity. While experimental surface treatment methods have been extensively studied, this book uniquely emphasizes computational tools' growing role in predicting, analyzing, and optimizing interfacial behavior, including machine learning and numerical modeling. This review offers a holistic perspective on interfacial strength optimization by bridging the gap between empirical techniques and theoretical frameworks. It also explores recent advances in manufacturing technologies, microstructural engineering, and the mechanical characterization of bio-composites. Finally, the book maps out current and emerging applications of NFRCs, providing readers with insight into their role in addressing environmental concerns and advancing sustainable material development. Ideal for researchers, engineers, and graduate students in materials science, mechanical engineering, and sustainable design, this work is a vital resource for anyone seeking to understand and innovate within bio-based composites.