Explore the world of biocomposites with this one-stop resource edited by four international leaders in the field Bio-based Composites: Characterization, Properties, and Applications delivers a comprehensive treatment of all known characterization methods, properties, and industry applications of bio-based composites materials. This unique, one-stop resource covers all major developments in the field from the last decade of research into this environmentally beneficial area. The internationally recognized editors have selected resources that represent advances in the mechanical, thermal, tribological, and water sorption properties of bio-based composites, and cover new areas of research in physico-chemical analysis, flame retardancy, failure mechanisms, lifecycle assessment, and modeling of bio-based composites. The low weight, low cost, excellent thermal recyclability, and biodegradability of bio-based composites make them ideal candidates to replace engineered plastic products derived from fossil fuel. This book provides its readers with the knowledge they'll require to understand a new class of materials increasingly being used in the automotive and packaging industries, aerospace, the military, and construction. It also includes: * An extended discussion of the environmental impact of bio-based composites using a lice cycle methodology * A review of forecasts of natural fiber reinforced polymeric composites and its degradability concerns * An analysis of the physical and mechanical properties of a bio-based composite with sisal powder * A comprehensive treatment of the mechanical, thermal, tribological, and dielectric properties of bio-based composites * A review of processing methods for the manufacture of bio-based composites Perfect for materials scientists in private industry, government laboratories, or engaged in academic research, Bio-Based Composites will also earn a place in the libraries of industrial and manufacturing engineers who seek a better understanding of the beneficial industrial applications of biocomposites in industries ranging from automobiles to packaging.