An overview of the multifunctional research progress and sustainable development trends in bamboo-based composites

To cope with the scarcity of petroleum-based material resources and increasing environmental problems, the development of environmentally friendly composite materials is imminent. The use of natural fibers to reinforce polymers to create composites is a state-of-the-art technology that not only significantly reduces the carbon footprint but also meets the requirements for lightweight and high-strength structural materials. As an outstanding representative of natural fibers, bamboo has a short maturity period, low production costs, biodegradability, and excellent mechanical properties. This paper reviews the effects of fiber content, fiber size, fiber surface modification, and the addition of nanomaterials and functional substances on the mechanical, thermal, flame-retardant, durability, water absorption, biodegradability, and recyclability properties of bamboo fiber-reinforced polymers. Based on the classification of composite matrices, bamboo-based composite systems are discussed in this paper in two categories: thermoplastic and thermosetting. This review also describes the diverse applications of the two bamboo-based composites and provides insights into their potential applications and prospects, which may be crucial for the efficient recycling of agroforestry waste, such as bamboo. This paper provides important insights and recommendations for researchers and experts in the field of bamboo matrix composites that can provide ideas for sustainable material development. This study also provides a reference for the application of biomass and biomass-derived materials to produce high value-added green composites.