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| Research gap | Recommendation for future studies |
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| Performance consistency and standardisation: properties variability due to sourcing, processing methods, and environmental conditions. Lack of standardised testing methods and quality control | Establishing standardised testing methods and quality control protocols to ensure consistent performance across different batches and sources is a significant research need. |
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| Mechanical strength and durability: mechanical strength and durability are essential for their broader application. Understanding microbiological action on defect initiation in polymer composite | Enhancing biopolymers’ mechanical strength and durability is essential for their broader application that matches or exceeds traditional petroleum-based plastics’ performance. |
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| Biodegradability and environmental impact: biodegradability of natural fibre in different service environments | Further research is required to understand the environmental fate of biopolymers in different conditions and ecosystems to ensure that they are genuinely sustainable. |
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| Processing techniques: compatibility with existing infrastructure | Developing efficient and cost-effective processing techniques for biopolymers, including extrusion, injection moulding, and 3D printing, is essential for widespread adoption in various industries. |
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| Achieving a consistent and even distribution of fibre particles | Improve the mixing method to achieve high-quality particulate agglomeration. |
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| Modelling and simulation: critical performance characteristic evaluation | Establish critical performance databases for modelling, design, and final validation of composite pies in actual service environments. |
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| Long-term behaviour and ageing: limited work on the long-term behaviour of natural fibre, especially under fatigue loading and performance history | Understanding the long-term behaviour and ageing of biopolymers under different conditions, such as exposure to sunlight, moisture, and temperature variations, is essential for predicting their performance over time. |
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| Regulatory and safety considerations: the standard for natural fibre testing to support its application in critical structural members that is acceptable by regulatory and certification is lacking | Establishing regulatory frameworks for biopolymers is essential to ensure their safety for consumers and the environment. It includes assessing potential risks associated with novel biopolymer formulations or additives. |
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| Economic viability: biopolymers hold promise, but their economic competitiveness still needs to be improved compared to traditional polymer composites from synthetic sources | Research focused on optimising production processes, reducing costs, and developing value-added applications can contribute to improving their economic viability. |
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