Extraction and Characterization Studies of Cellulose Derived from the Roots of Acalypha Indica L

Abstract

ABSTRACT The underlying principle of this current research was to characterize the cellulosic fibers that were retted from the roots of Acalypha indica L. plant to find their aptness for making green composites. Physical characterization tests were conducted and reported proving the reinforcing capability of these fibers which has a density of 1.356 g/cm3. Chemical composition tests conducted on these fibers showed the weight % of cellulose as 67.86. Amorphous constituents such as hemicellulose and lignin were present as 0.24 and 18.75 weight %, respectively. Wax, ash, and moisture were respectively present as 0.86, 2.13, and 10.16 weight % of fibers. X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies purported the presence of both amorphous and crystalline contents of cellulose confirming the peaks of Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) studies. The fibers possessed a crystallinity index of 46.62% and their crystallite size was computed as 3.68 nm from XRD, with a good temperature bearing capacity of 225°C as ascertained from the thermo-gravimetric analysis. Conglomeration of fibrils and the roughness characteristics were evident from the scanning electron microscopic images and atomic force microscopic observations, respectively. Thus, it can be seen that this newly identified fiber are apposite reinforcements and can be explored further by infusing them in polymer matrices for making sustainable products.