Physico-Chemical, Mechanical and Morphological Characterization of Furcraea Selloa K.Koch Plant Leaf Fibers-An Exploratory Investigation

Abstract

The interest in developing bio-based composite materials had grown up with the context of maintaining ecological integrity by introducing new eco-friendly materials. The present study investigated the suitability of a novel Furcraea selloa K. Koch leaf fiber (FSLF) for composite reinforcement instead of existing synthetic harmful fiber materials. The identification for exploration of novel natural fibers with significant properties is a great challenge for researchers, due to their accessibility in polymer composites eco-friendliness and sustainability. Indeed, physicochemical, thermal, mechanical, and morphological features were established through this study, low density (810 kg/m3), high crystallinity (56.7%), high thermal stability (350°C), good tensile strength (650 ± 23 MPa) were the notable features of FSLF that facilitate its further use for composite reinforcement. Moreover, good surface roughness with fewer impurities and low microfibril angle also prove its sustainability in composite reinforcement. This study suggests that the potential properties of FSLF would be a suitable alternative to commercially important synthetic fiber, in the highest seeking-fibers as reinforcement.