Extraction and Characterization of Novel Natural Fiber from Cryptostegia Grandiflora as a Potential Reinforcement in Biocomposites

Abstract

The significant environmental pollution caused by synthetic fibers drew researchers’ attention to the development of eco-friendly reinforcement for composite products. This study seeks to identify an alternative novel natural fiber from the Cryptostegia Grandiflora (CG) plant as a reinforcement material for bio composites. The fiber chemical compositions, X-ray diffraction, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy, Thermo Gravimetric Analysis, and tensile test for single fiber are all examined. The fiber had a cellulose content of 79.20% and a crystallinity index of 62%. Thermo Gravimetric Analysis confirms that Cryptostegia Grandiflora fiber (CGF) can withstand temperatures as high as 230°C. It has a density of 1.02 g/cc and a tensile strength of 791 MPa on average. This novel Cryptostegia Grandiflora fiber will undoubtedly be used as reinforcement material in bio-composite materials.

Keywords

• natural fiber
• cryptostegia grandiflora fiber
• chemical compositions
• chemical functional groups
• morphological properties
• thermal stability