Open Access
REVIEW
Harmiansyah1,2,3, Muhammad Asyraf Muhammad Rizal1,2,4,5,*, Mohd Yazid Yahya1,2,5, Rushdan Ahmad Ilyas1,4,5,6, Melbi Mahardika5,7
Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2026.02025-0207
Abstract Kenaf fibre has attracted increasing attention as a sustainable reinforcement material for polymer composites, particularly for applications in marine environments where lightweight structures, corrosion resistance, and environmental compatibility are essential. This review critically examines the current state of research on kenaf fibre–reinforced composites for marine applications, focusing on their mechanical performance, environmental durability, processing methods, and sustainability potential. Existing studies consistently indicate that kenaf fibres offer favourable strength-to-weight ratios, low density, and renewable characteristics, making them promising alternatives to conventional synthetic reinforcements. Surface modification techniques, including alkaline and silane treatments, have been widely reported to… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Wafaa Abou-Elseoud, Mohammad Hassan*
Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2026.02025-0190
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Process and Engineering of Lignocellulose Utilization)
Abstract Cellulose-based materials have emerged as promising biomaterials for advanced water remediation technologies due to their bioavailability, non-toxicity, biocompatibility, hydrophilicity, and ease of chemical modification. Cellulose can be prepared in multiple forms, including nanomaterials such as cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs), cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), and electrospun nanofibers. The abundant surface functional groups, such as hydroxyl and carboxyl groups, enable chemical tailoring, grafting, and composite formation with organic and inorganic additives, including metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), carbon-based materials, and metal oxide nanoparticles. These modifications enhance pollutant removal through adsorption, catalysis, and antimicrobial activity, enabling the treatment of heavy metals, dyes, More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Elina Hishamuddin*, Fatiha Ismail, Stasha Eleanor Rosland Abel, Humaira Alias Aisyah, Abdul Wahab Noorshamsiana
Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2026.02025-0187
Abstract Oil palm trunks (OPT), abundantly available during plantation replanting, represent a renewable lignocellulosic resource for sustainable material applications. Although OPT-derived cellulose has been extensively explored, the influence of oil palm age on cellulose properties remains insufficiently understood. In this study, cellulose was isolated from OPT aged 21, 25, and 32 years and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). SEM observations indicated more uniform and better-separated fibril structures in cellulose from older OPT, suggesting more effective removal of non-cellulosic components. FTIR confirmed successful cellulose isolation More >
Graphic Abstract
Open Access
REVIEW
Nuhu Lawal1,2, Adekunle Adeleke2,3, Petrus Nzerem2,4, Chizoma Adewumi2,5, Frank Ogundolie2,6, Esther Anosike-Francis2,3, Waliyi Adeleke2,3, Seun Jesuloluwa2,3,*
Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2026.02025-0203
Abstract The environmental concerns of petroleum-based plastics, including their non-biodegradability, contribution to pollution, and reliance on finite fossil resources, have motivated growing global interest in biodegradable alternatives, with starch-based bioplastics emerging as a promising solution due to their renewability, biodegradability, cost-effectiveness, and compatibility with existing processing technologies. This review synthesizes recent developments, challenges, and analytical techniques related to starch-based bioplastics. It examines the physicochemical properties of starch, modification methods such as plasticization, blending, and chemical treatments, and key production techniques including extrusion, injection molding, and 3D printing. Mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties are evaluated through standardized More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Manda Vais Jatul Fitri1, Melbi Mahardika2,3,4,*, Yuni Kusumastuti1,*, Mochamad Asrofi5
Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2026.02025-0197
Abstract The development of seaweed-derived products, particularly carrageenan, is increasingly prioritized in Indonesia to support sustainability and strengthen the local economy. Despite extensive studies on carrageenan extraction, systematic comparisons between locally extracted carrageenan and specific local commercial products remain limited. This study addresses this gap by directly comparing carrageenan extracted from Eucheuma cottonii harvested in Lombok, Indonesia, with a locally produced commercial carrageenan as a quality benchmark. Carrageenan extraction was performed using alkaline KOH treatment followed by ethanol precipitation. The extracted carrageenan exhibited a relatively high viscosity (61.16 cP) and a low sulfate content (11.58%). FTIR analysis More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Megabi Adane Yizengaw1,*, Alehegn Atalay Birlie1, Tamerat Tesfaye2, Rajan Katrikan1, Eldana Bizuneh Cheklie1, Zelalem Girma1
Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0175
Abstract Grape by-product of the wine industry, rich in polyphenols, tannins, lignin, and natural waxes, the chemical constituents grape skins 45%–55%, seeds 25%–35%, and stems or stalks 25%–35% weight of grape provide intrinsic cross-linking, mechanical reinforcement, antioxidant activity, and water resistance, closely replicating the effects of conventional vegetable tanning without using toxic chemicals. This review comprehensively examines current eco-friendly extraction methods to isolate bioactive compounds, as well as fiber modification techniques to improve polymer compatibility. Composite fabrication involves blending processed grape waste fibers with bio-based polymers and renewable plasticizers to produce materials exhibiting competitive tensile strength,… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Adib Hafiizhullah Mohamad Prim Nasir1,2, Mohd Nurazzi Norizan1,2,3,*, Nur Izzaati Saharudin1,2, Sumarni Mansur1,2
Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0156
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Biomass-based Thermoset and Thermoplastic Polymers for Biomass-based Composites)
Abstract Plant-based starch has emerged as a promising natural binder in biocomposites owing to its biodegradability, renewability, and functional adaptability. This study critically reviews the extraction, modification, and performance of starches derived from sources such as corn, potato, and cassava, with particular attention to their calorific behaviour as measured through bomb calorimetry. Calorimetric analysis provides insight into the energy density and combustion efficiency of starch binders, parameters that influence both processing and End-of-life valorisation of biocomposites. Through physical, chemical, enzymatic, and genetic modifications, the inherent limitations of native starch such as moisture sensitivity and low mechanical More >
Graphic Abstract
Open Access
ARTICLE
I. Nur Azreena*, H. A. Aisyah, A. W. Noorshamsiana
Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0178
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Harnessing the Potential of Natural Fiber Composites: A Paradigm Shift Towards Sustainable Materials )
Abstract This study examined the impact of various pre-treatment techniques on the physical and mechanical characteristics of particleboards derived from oil palm trunks (OPT). Thermal and chemical pre-treatments of the fibers, including hot water, sodium hydroxide (NaOH), and acetic acid, were applied prior to board production. In addition, antifungal agents were incorporated as supplementary additives during the manufacturing process at varying percentages to evaluate their effect on panel performance. Morphology of the treated OPT fibers was examined, and panel properties such as thermal behavior, bending strength, bonding strength, and dimensional stability were evaluated. Statistically significant improvements (p… More >
Open Access
SHORT COMMUNICATION
Siti Norasmah Surip1, Wan Nor Raihan Wan Jaafar1,*, Jaka Fajar Fatriansyah2, Ing Kong3
Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0182
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Biomass-based Thermoset and Thermoplastic Polymers for Biomass-based Composites)
Abstract Most studies on kenaf fibre composites focus on the bast due to its higher fibre yield and strength, while the core is often neglected. In this work, Polylactic Acid (PLA) matrix was reinforced with both kenaf bast and core fibres at a 49:1 wt% ratio. The fibres were chemically treated and cryo-crushed to improve bonding and dispersion. Mechanical testing revealed that treated Kenaf Core Composites (KCC) exhibited comparable flexural and impact properties to Kenaf Bast Composites (KBC), with flexural strengths of 46.19 and 46.52 MPa, respectively, and impact strengths of 5.8 and 4.4 J/m. Meanwhile, More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Nur ‘Aisyah Ar-Raudhoh Mohammad Tahar1, Muhammad Haziq Mohd Fadzli1, Siti Nur Liyana Mamauod1,2,*, Nahrul Hayawin Zainal3
Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0177
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Biomass-based Thermoset and Thermoplastic Polymers for Biomass-based Composites)
Abstract The palm oil industry is a major contributor to Malaysia’s economy, but its huge production has generated large amounts of oil palm biomass, particularly palm kernel shell (PKS), which poses environmental challenges if not properly managed. Converting PKS into biochar (PKSB) and activated carbon (APKS) offers a sustainable way to valorise this waste as potential bio-fillers in rubber composites. This study investigates the influence of nano-sized PKSB (n-PKSB) and activated PKS (n-APKS) as bio-fillers on the mechanical performance of natural rubber (NR) vulcanizates, with filler loadings ranging from 0 to 10 parts per hundred rubber… More >
Graphic Abstract
Open Access
REVIEW
Tamer Y. A. Fahmy1, Samir Kamel1, Ahmed M. Khalil2,*
Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0180
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Recent Advances on Renewable Materials)
Abstract The growing threat of viral pandemics necessitates innovative antiviral strategies that are effective, sustainable, and scalable. This review highlights nanocellulose as a renewable, biocompatible nanomaterial and a promising multifunctional antiviral platform. We examine cellulose nanocrystals, nanofibrils, and bacterial nanocellulose, emphasizing their synergistic antiviral mechanisms, including nanoscale viral entrapment and surface-mediated inactivation via sulfation, cationic groups, and metal nanoparticles. Key advances include photothermally active nanocellulose-graphene composites for on-demand viral deactivation, sulfated nanocellulose mimicking heparin’s virus-trapping properties, and engineered biopolymer hybrids for targeted drug delivery and mucosal immunity. Translational applications span antiviral coatings, self-sterilizing filters, and regenerative More >
Graphic Abstract
Open Access
ARTICLE
Zhiying Lin1, Boju Deng1, Qianqian Zhang1, Jingming Chen2, Xinqiang Ye3, Yuling Lan1, Jiuping Rao1,*, Mizi Fan4, Weigang Zhao1,*
Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0096
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Renewable Nanostructured Porous Materials: Synthesis, Processing, and Applications)
Abstract Bio-derived carbon cryogels have garnered significant interest as promising electrode materials for supercapacitors due to their high specific surface area (SSA), hierarchical porosity, and eco-friendly synthesis methods. In this study, a tannin-modified phenolic hydrogel was synthesized using a sustainable tannin–phenol precursor system and subsequently subjected to three distinct drying methods-freeze-drying (FD), supercritical drying (SCD), and ambient pressure drying (APD)-to systematically evaluate their influence on structural integrity, porosity, and electrochemical behavior. Among these, the sample obtained via freeze-drying (TPUF-FD) maintained the most intact porous network, minimizing structural collapse during sublimation of ice under vacuum. This preservation… More >
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