Protective Composites Layers: A Review of Banana Fibre and Graphene Composites for Blast Protection

Abdul Rashid Othman; Ahmad Humaizi Hilmi; Asna Rasyidah Abdul Hamid; Siti Aisyah Azman

doi:10.58915/aset.v4i2.2527

Authors

Abdul Rashid Othman Universiti Malaysia Perlis
Ahmad Humaizi Hilmi Universiti Malaysia Perlis
Asna Rasyidah Abdul Hamid Universiti Malaysia Perlis
Siti Aisyah Azman Universiti Malaysia Perlis

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58915/aset.v4i2.2527

Keywords:

Banana pseudostem fibre, Graphene nanoplatelets, Hybrid composites, Sustainable materials, Blast and impact resistance

Abstract

The demand for sustainable, high-performance materials in blast and impact protection has stimulated extensive research into hybrid composites that combine natural fibres with advanced nanomaterials. This review critically analyses recent developments in banana pseudostem fibre–graphene hybrid composites, highlighting the potential as eco-friendly alternatives to conventional synthetic ballistic materials such as aramid and Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE). More than 54 peer-reviewed studies published between 2019 and 2025 were examined to evaluate how the integration of graphene nanoplatelets or graphene oxide improves the interfacial bonding, crack resistance, thermal stability, and overall energy absorption capacity of banana fibre-reinforced polymer composites. The reviewed literature shows that while banana fibre offers low density and biodegradability, its mechanical limitations can be significantly offset by incorporating graphene, which acts as a nano-reinforcement to enhance load transfer and restrict crack propagation under dynamic loads. Experimental findings across multiple studies indicate that hybridisation can increase tensile strength by up to 60% and improve impact resistance by 30–50% compared to untreated natural fibre composites, with these values primarily reported for jute, kenaf, and flax systems. Results for banana fibre–graphene hybrids remain limited but indicate similar strengthening trends. However, large-scale blast testing of banana fibre–graphene hybrids remains scarce, and challenges persist in achieving uniform graphene dispersion, scalable processing, and consistent fibre–matrix compatibility. This review identifies key research gaps, including optimising surface functionalisation, developing cost-effective fabrication routes, and establishing standardised testing protocols under realistic blast and impact conditions. Addressing these issues is crucial to advance banana fibre–graphene hybrid composites from laboratory feasibility towards practical, deployable blast-resistant solutions that align with circular economy and sustainability goals.

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