Natural fibre composites in a marine environment

Natural fibres have been employed in maritime applications since ancient times in the form of ropes, lashings and sails. More recently, natural fibre composites (NFCs) have provided a solution for the manufacture of fibre composite boats and surfboards with enhanced eco-profiles, but they suffer from questionable environmental stability. This chapter considers the history of natural fibres in marine applications and compares their mechanical properties and eco-profile with synthetic fibres. The hygroscopic performance of NFCs is briefly reviewed and methods for reducing moisture uptake are explained. Marine applications for NFCs are restricted to water craft including yachts, canoes and surfboards, and recent examples are described. Key web links and references are listed at the end of the chapter.