Biocomposite is a
composite material formed by a
matrix (
resin) and a reinforcement of
natural fibers. These kind of materials often mimic the structure of the living materials involved in the process keeping the strengthening properties of the matrix that was used, but always providing biocompatibility. The matrix phase is formed by
polymers derived from
renewable and nonrenewable resources. The matrix is important to protect the fibers from
environmental degradation and mechanical damage, to hold the fibers together and to transfer the loads on it. In addition, biofibers are the principal components of biocomposites, which are derived from biological origins, for example fibers from
crops (
cotton,
flax or
hemp), recycled
wood, waste
paper, crop processing byproducts or regenerated
cellulose fiber (viscose/rayon). The interest in biocomposites is rapidly growing in terms of industrial applications (
automobiles,
railway coach,
aerospace,
military applications,
construction, and
packaging) and fundamental research, due to its great benefits (renewable, cheap,
recyclable, and
biodegradable). Biocomposites can be used alone, or as a complement to standard materials, such as carbon fiber. Advocates of biocomposites state that use of these materials improve health and safety in their production, are lighter in weight, have a visual appeal similar to that of wood, and are environmentally superior.