In a world increasingly conscious of sustainability, a new study is shining a light on natural fiber-reinforced composites (NFRCs) and their potential to revolutionize key engineering industries. Led by Jakiya Sultana from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Informatics at the University of Miskolc in Hungary, and the School of Mechanical Engineering at Northwestern Polytechnical University in China, the research offers a comprehensive look at the progress, challenges, and applications of NFRCs and hybrid composites in aerospace, automobile, biomedical, and building construction sectors.
Published in *Results in Engineering* (which translates to *Engineering Results* in English), the study leverages CiteSpace bibliometric software and data from the Web of Science platform to analyze 187 articles, providing a scientometric review of NFRCs from 2015 to 2025. The findings suggest that NFRCs could be a viable alternative to conventional polymeric composites, particularly in terms of sustainability and low carbon footprint.
“NFRCs and hybrid composites could be a suitable alternative to polymeric composites in terms of sustainability and low carbon footprint in currently adopted Engineering applications,” Sultana explains. This is a significant statement, as the energy sector, including construction and transportation, is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact.
The study highlights the core benefits of NFRCs, such as their sustainability, renewability, and potential to promote a circular economy. However, it also acknowledges challenges, including durability and low mechanical strength. “Some challenges still exist from a material perspective, such as durability and low mechanical strength,” Sultana notes. “However, potential solutions are comprehensively discussed to overcome these challenges.”
The research identifies significant keywords, publications, journals, and countries where NFRCs and hybrid composites are adopted, providing valuable insights for future researchers, stakeholders, and industries. It also explores current and future applications of NFRCs, offering a roadmap for developing sustainable and low-carbon-based materials.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. As industries strive to meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations, NFRCs could play a pivotal role in reducing carbon footprints. The study’s findings could influence policy decisions, research priorities, and commercial investments, shaping the future of sustainable engineering.
In the quest for a cleaner environment, this research offers a promising path forward. By addressing the challenges and leveraging the benefits of NFRCs, industries can make significant strides towards sustainability. As Sultana’s work demonstrates, the future of engineering lies in innovative, eco-friendly materials that can meet the demands of a rapidly changing world.