Adding graphene to jute fibres could give natural alternative to man-made materials

Scientists from The University of Manchester have combined graphene with the natural fibre jute, to create a world's first for graphene-strengthened natural jute fibre composites.

The breakthrough could lead to the manufacturing of high-performance and environmentally friendlynaturalfibre composites that could replace their synthetic counterparts in major manufacturing areas, such as the automotive industry, ship building, durable wind turbine blades and low-cost housing.

It could also boost the farming economies of countries such as Bangladesh, India, and China – where the jute material is mainly produced – the researchers from The University of Manchester claim.