Recent developments in lignocellulosic Areca catechu-based biocomposites and their potential industrial applications:...

A review concentrating on biocomposites derived from Areca catechu or arecanut is essential due to the increasing need for eco-friendly and biodegradable materials. The areca palm comprises areca nuts, husks, sheaths, and stems. The primary resource for areca-based waste is areca leaf sheaths. The prevalent disposal method is incineration directly on-site because it is considered the cheapest option, which presents environmental concerns, including carbon emissions and global warming. Moreover, incineration depletes the precious organic content and essential plant nutrients present in waste. The areca market experienced significant growth in 2023, driven by globalization, increased trade, and its wide range of applications. Areca has emerged as a promising source of cellulose; therefore, nanocellulose can be extracted from areca nut fibers via mechanical methods such as grinding and milling or chemical methods such as acid hydrolysis, TEMPO-mediated oxidation, and enzymatic treatment. Areca-based composites have diverse applications in construction, insulation boards, sustainable packaging, home decor, textiles, pulp and paper, and lightweight components for the automotive and aerospace sectors. However, to improve their performance as composite reinforcements, surface modifications are necessary to enhance fiber-matrix adhesion and reduce water absorption.