Bio-Inspired Composites: Unlocking the Potential of Hierarchical Natural Fibres

Nature has long been a source of inspiration for high-performance materials, offering composites with intricate hierarchical architectures that provide exceptional mechanical properties. While natural fibres such as flax, hemp, and bamboo have been used for centuries, their full potential in structural and high-performance applications remains largely untapped. By leveraging bio-inspired design and advanced processing techniques, we can engineer fibres with tailored properties, creating sustainable alternatives to synthetic composites. At the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, my research focuses on developing and enhancing natural fibres for next-generation composites. By studying the complex structures of biological materials, we design hierarchical fibres with optimised mechanical properties, bridging the gap between natural and synthetic reinforcements. Our recent work on bamboo fibre densification has resulted in tensile strengths approaching 2000 MPa, comparable to specific carbon fibre properties, offering a viable alternative for demanding applications. Additionally, we explore bio-inspired surface treatments, such as dopamine-based coatings, to enhance interfacial bonding, as well as self-healing mechanisms to improve durability in harsh environments. Beyond material design, we are also advancing the scalability and processability of natural fibres. Our research includes developing high-quality bamboo fibre tapes and textiles, exploring fibre-welding techniques for continuous reinforcements, and integrating natural fibres into 3D-printed composites. These innovations aim to address key challenges in natural fibre composites, making them more durable, versatile, and industrially viable. This talk will present recent advancements in these areas, highlighting how a combination of bio-inspiration, engineering, and innovative processing can unlock the full potential of natural fibres. By bridging the gap between nature and technology, we aim to develop sustainable, high-performance composites that challenge the dominance of traditional synthetic materials.