Investigation on Physicochemical, Thermal and Mechanical Properties of New Cellulosic Fiber Obtained from the Stem of Tecoma Stans

Abstract

ABSTRACT The objective of this study is to investigate chemical, physical, mechanical and thermal properties of novel cellulosic fiber extracted from the bark of Tecoma stans tree. Tests such as chemical, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry were carried on TS fibers. Higher cellulose and lower wax content in TSF make them stronger and establish better interfacial adhesion. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed the crystallinity index and crystallite size of TSF as 31.24% and 2.2 nm respectively. From thermogravimetric analysis, TSF was found to withstand up to 334°C and exhibit activation energy 72.03 kJ/mol. Tensile strength (330–543 MPa) and Young’s modulus (9.60–16.28 GPa) of TSF were found to be comparatively higher than other natural fibers. The morphology of TS fiber surface examined through FESEM revealed the existence of cellular structure with some serrations which makes the surface rougher and results in better adherence with polymer matrix.