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J. Compos. Sci.
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Composites: A Sustainable Material Solution, 2nd Edition
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Composites: A Sustainable Material Solution, 2nd Edition

A special issue of Journal of Composites Science (ISSN 2504-477X).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2026 | Viewed by 14137

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Julfikar Haider

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M1 5GD, UK
Interests: composites in dentistry; tribology; surface engineering; metal matrix composites; fiber-reinforced polymer composites; nanocomposites
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Swadesh Kumar Singh

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Gokaraju Rangaraju Institute of Engineering & Technology, Telangana 500090, India
Interests: metal forming; material modelling; bio-composites; finite element method; green composites
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Sustainable and green composites refer to materials that are developed with a focus on environmental friendliness and longevity. These composites typically integrate natural fibers such as bamboo, hemp, or flax with bio-based resins or recycled polymers. By utilizing renewable resources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, they help mitigate the environmental impact of traditional composite materials.

One key advantage of sustainable composites is their reduced carbon footprint compared to conventional counterparts, as they require less energy to produce and often sequester carbon dioxide during growth. Additionally, these materials can offer comparable or even superior mechanical properties, making them suitable for various applications including automotive, construction, and consumer goods.

The production process for sustainable composites also tends to generate less waste and fewer emissions, further contributing to their eco-friendliness. Moreover, their biodegradability or recyclability at the end-of-life stage ensures a closed-loop system, minimizing waste accumulation and resource depletion.

Overall, sustainable and green composites represent a promising avenue for creating durable, environmentally responsible materials that align with the principles of a circular economy and sustainable development. Continued research and innovation in this field hold the potential to further enhance their performance and widen their applicability across industries.

Dr. Julfikar Haider
Prof. Dr. Swadesh Kumar Singh
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Composites Science is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • polymer composites
  • biobased composites
  • metallic composites
  • nanocomposites
  • natural fibre based composites
  • smart composites

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 3447 KB  
Article
Hydrophobic Fly Ash-Based Mineral Powder for Sustainable Asphalt Mixtures
by Kairat Kuanyshkalievich Mukhambetkaliyev, Bexultan Dulatovich Chugulyov, Jakharkhan Kairatuly Kabdrashit, Zhanbolat Anuarbekovich Shakhmov and Yelbek Bakhitovich Utepov
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(12), 701; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9120701 - 16 Dec 2025
Viewed by 182
Abstract
This study develops and assesses a hydrophobized fly ash mineral powder as a filler for dense fine-graded asphalt mixtures in Kazakhstan. Fly ash from a local TPP was dry co-milled with a stearate-based modifier to yield a free-flowing, hydrophobic powder that meets the [...] Read more.
This study develops and assesses a hydrophobized fly ash mineral powder as a filler for dense fine-graded asphalt mixtures in Kazakhstan. Fly ash from a local TPP was dry co-milled with a stearate-based modifier to yield a free-flowing, hydrophobic powder that meets the national limits for moisture, porosity, and gradation. SEM shows cenospheres and broken shells partially armored by adherent fines, suggesting an increased micro-roughness and potential sites for binder–filler bonding. Three mixes were produced: a carbonate reference and two fly ash variants, all designed at the same optimum binder content. Compared with the reference, fly ash fillers delivered a markedly higher compressive strength (up to about five times at 20 °C), improved adhesion, and high internal friction, while the mixture density rutting resistance was essentially unchanged. Water resistance indices remained high and stable despite only modest changes in water saturation, and crack resistance improved, especially for the dry ash mixture. The convergence of microstructural, physicochemical, and mechanical results shows that surface-engineered fly ash from a Kazakhstani TPP can technically replace natural carbonate filler while enhancing durability-critical performance and supporting the more resource-efficient use of industrial by-products in pavements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composites: A Sustainable Material Solution, 2nd Edition)
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29 pages, 8337 KB  
Article
Lime and Nano-Limestone Composite-Based Pretreatment and Adsorption Strategies for Olive Mill Wastewater Treatment: Toward Efficient and Sustainable Solutions
by Abeer Al Bawab, Razan Afaneh, Muna A. Abu-Dalo, Fadwa Odeh, Mustafa Al Kuisi and Nathir A. F. Al-Rawashdeh
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(11), 618; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9110618 - 9 Nov 2025
Viewed by 635
Abstract
The treatment of olive mill wastewater (OMW) remains a major environmental challenge due to its high organic load and phenolic content. This study investigates a combined approach using lime pretreatment and limestone (LS)-based adsorption for cost-effective and sustainable OMW remediation. Locally sourced limestone [...] Read more.
The treatment of olive mill wastewater (OMW) remains a major environmental challenge due to its high organic load and phenolic content. This study investigates a combined approach using lime pretreatment and limestone (LS)-based adsorption for cost-effective and sustainable OMW remediation. Locally sourced limestone was used in both micro- and nanoscale forms, while lime (CaO) was produced by calcination. The materials were characterized using X-ray Diffraction pattern (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), and Point of Zero Charge (pHPZC) analyses to evaluate surface properties relevant to adsorption. Lime pretreatment achieved notable reductions in total suspended solids (TSS, 99%), chemical oxygen demand (COD, 43%), and total phenolic content (TPC, 48%). Subsequent adsorption with nano-limestone (particles obtained through high-energy ball milling, followed by sieving, with a size distribution 400–500 nm) further enhanced pollutant removal, achieving up to 72% COD and 89% TPC reduction in batch experiments. Column studies confirmed the synergistic effect of mixed particle sizes, yielding 65% COD and 76% TPC removal. The combined process demonstrates the potential of lime–limestone composites as locally available and eco-friendly materials for OMW treatment. While promising, the results represent laboratory-scale findings; further optimization and long-term assessments are recommended for field applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composites: A Sustainable Material Solution, 2nd Edition)
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17 pages, 4580 KB  
Article
Experimental Study of the Thermomechanical Properties of a New Eco-Friendly Composite Material Based on Clay and Reed
by Aya Minoual, Soumia Mounir, Sara Ibn-Elhaj, Youssef Maaloufa, Hind Sarghini, Ahmed Kabouri and Abdelhamid Khabbazi
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(9), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9090469 - 2 Sep 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1083
Abstract
Reducing environmental impacts and energy consumption in construction is increasingly important, prompting the use of renewable, ecological, and cost-effective materials. This research investigates an ecological building material combining clay and ground reed fibers, offering a promising alternative to conventional resources. A composite made [...] Read more.
Reducing environmental impacts and energy consumption in construction is increasingly important, prompting the use of renewable, ecological, and cost-effective materials. This research investigates an ecological building material combining clay and ground reed fibers, offering a promising alternative to conventional resources. A composite made of 50% clay and 50% ground reed was developed to study the influence of fiber size after grinding, as reed is typically used in its unprocessed form. Initial analyses included a physico-chemical characterization of both clay and reed. Thermal performance was then evaluated under steady-state and transient conditions to assess heat storage, heat transfer, and the material’s thermal inertia. The results showed a thermal conductivity of 0.38 W/m·K and an estimated 50% energy savings compared to clay alone, demonstrating the composite’s enhanced insulation capacity. Mechanical tests revealed compressive strengths of 2.48 MPa and flexural strengths of 0.79 MPa, with no significant effect from fiber size. The composite is lighter and more insulating than traditional clay blocks, indicating potential for reduced heating demand and improved indoor comfort. This study confirms the feasibility of incorporating ground reed fibers into clay-based composites to produce more sustainable building materials, supporting the transition toward energy-efficient and environmentally responsible construction practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composites: A Sustainable Material Solution, 2nd Edition)
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28 pages, 11672 KB  
Article
Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal Synthesis of Cu/Sr-Doped Hydroxyapatite with Prospective Applications for Bone Tissue Engineering
by Diana-Elena Radulescu, Bogdan Stefan Vasile, Otilia Ruxandra Vasile, Ionela Andreea Neacsu, Roxana Doina Trusca, Vasile-Adrian Surdu, Alexandra Catalina Birca, Georgiana Dolete, Cornelia-Ioana Ilie and Ecaterina Andronescu
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(8), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9080427 - 7 Aug 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1408
Abstract
One of the main challenges in hydroxyapatite research is to develop cost-effective synthesis methods that consistently produce materials closely resembling natural bone, while maintaining high biocompatibility, phase purity, and mechanical stability for biomedical applications. Traditional synthetic techniques frequently fail to provide desirable mechanical [...] Read more.
One of the main challenges in hydroxyapatite research is to develop cost-effective synthesis methods that consistently produce materials closely resembling natural bone, while maintaining high biocompatibility, phase purity, and mechanical stability for biomedical applications. Traditional synthetic techniques frequently fail to provide desirable mechanical characteristics and antibacterial activity, necessitating the development of novel strategies based on natural precursors and selective ion doping. The present study aims to explore the possibility of synthesizing hydroxyapatite through the co-precipitation method, followed by a microwave-assisted hydrothermal maturation process. The main CaO sources selected for this study are eggshells and mussel shells. Cu2+ and Sr2+ ions were added into the hydroxyapatite structure at concentrations of 1% and 5% to investigate their potential for biomedical applications. Furthermore, the morpho-structural and biological properties have been investigated. Results demonstrated the success of hydroxyapatite synthesis and ion incorporation into its chemical structure. Moreover, HAp samples exhibited significant antimicrobial properties, especially the samples doped with 5% Cu and Sr. Additionally, all samples presented good biological activity on MC3T3-E1 osteoblast cells, demonstrating good cellular viability of all samples. Therefore, by correlating the results, it could be concluded that the undoped and doped hydroxyapatite samples are suitable biomaterials to be further applied in orthopedic applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composites: A Sustainable Material Solution, 2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 2673 KB  
Article
Thermal and Volumetric Signatures of the Mullins Effect in Carbon Black Reinforced Styrene-Butadiene Rubber Composites
by Nicolas Candau, Guillaume Corvec, Noel León-Albiter and Miguel Mudarra Lopez
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(8), 393; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9080393 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1012
Abstract
This paper investigates the interplay between rubber network damage, carbon black (CB) network damage, heat exchange, and voiding mechanisms in filled Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) under cyclic loading. To do so, three carbon black filled SBR composites, SBR5, SBR30 and SBR60 are studied. The [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the interplay between rubber network damage, carbon black (CB) network damage, heat exchange, and voiding mechanisms in filled Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) under cyclic loading. To do so, three carbon black filled SBR composites, SBR5, SBR30 and SBR60 are studied. The study aims to quantify molecular damage and its role in inducing reversible or irreversible heat flow and voiding behavior to inform the design of more resilient rubber composites with improved fatigue life and thermal management capabilities. The study effectively demonstrated how increasing carbon black content, particularly in SBR60, leads to a shift from mostly reversible to irreversible and cumulative damage mechanisms during cyclic loading, as evidenced by thermal, volumetric, and electrical resistivity changes. In particular, we identify a critical mechanical energy of 7 MJ.m−3 associated with such transition. These irreversible changes are strongly linked to the damage and re-arrangement of the carbon black filler network, as well as the rubber chains network and the formation/growth of voids, while reversible mechanisms are likely related to rubber chains alignment associated with entropic elasticity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composites: A Sustainable Material Solution, 2nd Edition)
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20 pages, 1913 KB  
Article
Assessment of Sustainable Structural Concrete Made by Composite Waste for the Concrete Industry: An Experimental Study
by Jamal K. Nejem, Mohammad Nadeem Akhtar, Amin H. Almasri and Mohd Salman Rais
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(6), 279; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9060279 - 30 May 2025
Viewed by 1192
Abstract
Natural sand and high OPC utilization in the concrete industry have affected our environment and caused climate change. This study developed a novel methodology to prepare modified sand by adding (50% R-Sand + 50% M-Sand) to replace 100% natural sand. The two SCMs [...] Read more.
Natural sand and high OPC utilization in the concrete industry have affected our environment and caused climate change. This study developed a novel methodology to prepare modified sand by adding (50% R-Sand + 50% M-Sand) to replace 100% natural sand. The two SCMs (5–20% of FA) and 10% of optimized SF were added to the four newly developed concrete mixes. The developed sustainable design mix concrete achieved the design and target strength after a curing period of 28 days. The findings for flexural strength showed comparable trends. Significant strength improvement was also seen at later curing ages, till 182 days. The water absorption and sulfuric acid attacks of the design mix concrete at the hardened stage were also measured. The analysis reveals that water absorption percentages tend to decline as the curing age progresses. The developed mixes show better resistance against sulfuric acid attacks than the reference mix NAC*. A mass loss of around 5% was discovered, much closer to the published studies. The developed mix 15FASFRSC showed consistent results when the modified sand (50% R-Sand + 50% M-Sand) was combined with the SCMs of (15% FA + 10% SF). Hence, the mix 15FASFRSC is the best sustainable mix for the concrete industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composites: A Sustainable Material Solution, 2nd Edition)
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Review

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24 pages, 2067 KB  
Review
Coconut Coir Fiber Composites for Sustainable Architecture: A Comprehensive Review of Properties, Processing, and Applications
by Mohammed Nissar, Chethan K. N., Yashaswini Anantsagar Birjerane, Shantharam Patil, Sawan Shetty and Animita Das
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(10), 516; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9100516 - 26 Sep 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 8092
Abstract
The growing need for sustainable materials in architecture has sparked significant interest in natural-fiber-based composites. Among these, coconut coir, a by-product of the coconut industry, has emerged as a promising raw material owing to its abundance, renewability, and excellent mechanical properties. The promise [...] Read more.
The growing need for sustainable materials in architecture has sparked significant interest in natural-fiber-based composites. Among these, coconut coir, a by-product of the coconut industry, has emerged as a promising raw material owing to its abundance, renewability, and excellent mechanical properties. The promise of coir-based composites in architecture is highlighted in this review, which also looks at their problems, advantages for the environment, manufacturing processes, and mechanical, thermal, and acoustic performances. The fibrous shape of the coir provides efficient thermal and acoustic insulation, while its high lignin concentration guarantees stiffness, biological resistance, and dimensional stability. Fiber-matrix adhesion and durability have improved owing to advancements in treatment and environmentally friendly binders, opening up the use of cement, polymers, and hybrid composites. In terms of the environment, coir composites promote a biophilic design, reduce embodied carbon, and decrease landfill waste. Moisture sensitivity, inconsistent fiber quality, and production scaling are obstacles; however, advancements in hybridization, grading, and nanotechnology hold promise. This review provides comprehensive, architecture-focused review that integrates material science, fabrication techniques, and real-world architectural applications of coir-based composites. Coir-based composites have the potential to be long-lasting, sustainable substitutes for conventional materials in climate-resilient architectural design if they are further investigated and included in green certification programs and the circular economy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composites: A Sustainable Material Solution, 2nd Edition)
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