Inspired by Reinforced-Concrete Structures: High-Strength, Stable, Sustainable Reed-Based Plastics

Green and sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics can reduce environmental pollution and alleviate the resource crisis. Reed straw (Rs) is a rapidly growing, eco-friendly, low-cost, and natural fiber with great potential as a sustainable resource. However, the development of high-performance plastic substitutes from Rs is challenging owing to its weak interfacial bonding. Herein, inspired by the structure of reinforced concrete, a top-down strategy is adopted using a simple and rapid physical-filling and directional-assembly method in which the adhesive is evenly filled and adhered to the regular and continuous reed fiber skeleton. A reed-based plastic with high strength, stability, fire resistance, and nontoxicity is developed using this approach via densification and rapid curing. The flexural strength, flexural modulus, and tensile strength of the material are 116 ± 8.05 MPa, 13.54 ± 0.67 GPa, and 81 ± 9.85 MPa, respectively. Moreover, the material demonstrated excellent dimensional stability during baking at 120 °C baking and 24 h of water immersion, and achieved a V-0 rating in the UL-94 test without producing toxic gases during pyrolysis. Benefiting from these properties, the developed reed-based plastic demonstrates potential as a sustainable alternative to conventional petroleum-derived plastics, with promising applications in home decor and structural construction.