Dimensional stability of natural fiber-based and hybrid composites

Dimension stability is the degree to which materials can maintain their original dimension under different temperatures and humid conditions. The stability of dimensions is categorized in the passive or active mode. The dimensional stability of a material is important in composites especially for hybrid composites. This aspect be used to predict the long shelf life and use of composites for different exterior and interior applications. Consequently, by determining the dimensional stability, other properties of hybrid materials, including their mechanical performance and physical and electrical properties, can be further explained. For mechanical performance especially in load-bearing applications low-dimensional stability is also affected by poor flexural and tensile properties. Fiber-reinforced composites and hybrid composites are greatly influenced by these aspects, especially because some reinforced materials or fillers that are used are from natural resources such as natural fibers and agricultural waste, which have a high moisture content that is affected by the dimensional stability of the composites that are produced. This chapter focuses on the factors that affect the dimensional stability of natural fiber-based and hybrid composites. The study also suggests a solution for how to overcome, control, and reduce dimensional stability through several aspects.