• Lukkitha M C R
• Ashlyn Janet A K

Additive Manufacturing (AM) has opened up new possibilities for the use of bio-based polymers, with PLA (Polylactic Acid) standing out as one of the most promising sustainable materials in Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM). Yet, despite its popularity, pure PLA often falls short in toughness and thermal resistance, limiting its range of applications. One of the most widely explored solutions to this issue is reinforcing PLA with natural fibres, which not only improves material performance but also aligns with sustainability goals. This review brings together insights from studies on PLA composites strengthened with hemp and agave fibres, with particular attention to their mechanical behaviour, thermal response, and printability. Alongside existing research, the paper also discusses a planned fabrication process involving two extrusion trials: the first with PLA blended with 5% hemp and 5% agave fibre, and the second with 10% of each fibre. Before extrusion, the fibres are treated with alkali, dried, and ground to ensure better bonding with the polymer matrix. By linking literature findings with this experimental framework, the review highlights both the advantages and challenges of fibre reinforcement, such as dispersion, bonding quality, and processing conditions. Ultimately, the study emphasises the potential of hemp–agave reinforced PLA as a sustainable filament for 3D printing, while pointing out areas where further research is needed to refine fibre combinations and optimise processing techniques.

Additive Manufacturing; PLA-Filaments; FDM; natural fibre-based filaments; mechanical properties; hemp fibre; agave fibre

"Mechanical Performance Assessment of Polylactic Acid (PLA) Based Bio-composite Filaments Incorporating Natural Fiber Reinforcements for Sustainable Additive Manufacturing", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 10, page no.a577-a597, October-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2510073.pdf

"Mechanical Performance Assessment of Polylactic Acid (PLA) Based Bio-composite Filaments Incorporating Natural Fiber Reinforcements for Sustainable Additive Manufacturing", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 10, page no. ppa577-a597, October-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2510073.pdf