Magnetoactive and electroactive biobased and biopolymer composites

Abstract

In the scope of a more sustainable economy, composite materials based on non-renewable fossil fuel resources must undergo a rapid reduction and being gradually replaced by more sustainable composites, including biobased ones, aiming to improved environmental friendliness and biodegradability. This review highlights the application of biobased polymer composites in the field of magnetoactive and electroactive smart materials, which are some of the most useful and extended composite materials currently used in sensor, actuator and related applications. First, the physical principles of the most common magnetoactive and electroactive responses are presented. The materials used to produce magnetoactive and electroactive composites are discussed in the following sections, with particular emphasis on the active filler materials, the matrices, and to representative applications that have been developed. Finally, as an essential consideration in this field, the environmental impact of the life cycle of the materials has been discussed. This work should serve as a basis for researchers who are working in the field of magnetoactive and electroactive composites, aiming to contribute to the needed sustainability improvement in the field, while maintaining or even improving performance parameters.