Description

Growing awareness of environmental issues has led to increasing demand for goods produced from natural products, including natural fibres. The two-volume Handbook of natural fibres is an indispensable tool in understanding the diverse properties and applications of these important materials. Volume 2: Processing and applications focuses on key processing techniques for the improvement and broader application of natural fibres. Part one reviews processing techniques for natural fibres. Silk production and the future of natural silk manufacture are discussed, as well as techniques to improve the flame retardancy of natural fibres and chemical treatments to improve natural fibre properties. Ultraviolet-blocking properties, enzymatic treatment, and electrokinetic properties are also discussed. Part two goes on to investigate applications of natural fibres, including automotive applications, geotextiles, paper and packaging, and natural fibre composites (NFCs) for the construction and automotive industries. The use of flax and hemp, textiles made from jute and coir, antimicrobial natural fibres, and biomimetic textile materials are also considered, before a final discussion of enhancing consumer demand for natural textile fibres.