Characterization Studies on Novel Cellulosic Fiber Obtained from the Bark of Madhuca Longifolia Tree

Abstract

Recently, the global demand for plastics rose to its maximum mainly due to the rapid increase in population and the growing demand for automobiles. The mass production and disposal of synthetic fiber-based composites pollutes the environment and emission of greenhouse gases. Natural fibers prove to be a suitable alternative to synthetic fibers and the green composites made by reinforcing them with biopolymers find widespread use in various engineering applications. In this paper, the physico-chemical, mechanical, and thermal properties of novel cellulosic fibers extracted from the bark of Madhuca longifolia tree have been investigated through standard test procedures. Test results revealed the presence of cellulose (50.64 wt.%), lignin (17.44 wt.%), and wax (0.60 wt.%) in Madhuca longifolia fiber (MLF). High strength, high rigidity, and better interfacial bonding characteristics with polymer matrix results due to the presence of these chemical constituents. Lower density (1510 kg/m3) and higher activation energy (67.04 kJ/mol) make MLF suitable for making lightweight green composites. The tensile strength and modulus of MLF were found to be 140.96–317.50 MPa and 4.29–5.90 GPa, respectively. The morphology of MLF surface examined through FESEM images revealed the existence of a rough, porous surface, which is essential for making biodegradable composites.

Keywords

• madhuca longifolia fiber
• cellulose
• chemical properties
• crystallinity index
• mechanical properties
• thermal stability