Structural properties of rice husk and its polymer matrix composites: An overview

Abstract

There has been enormous interest in natural fiber application as reinforcing filler due to the interests in renewable raw materials and more environmentally friendly and sustainable resources. Rice husk (RH), a natural sheath that forms around rice grains during their growth, is an agro-industrial waste, and its utilization as reinforcement in composite materials has increased tremendously. This chapter describes the key structural properties of RH and its physical and chemical treatment methods to enhance interfacial adhesion of various matrices with RH. After introducing the reinforcing potential of RH on various thermoplastics and thermosets, thermal stability and water absorption properties of the composites are also discussed. A brief overview on the potential of RH to hybridize with other fillers is also included in this chapter.