Abstract
This article explores an easy and economically viable route for cellulose fibre isolation from the stem of Pennisetum polystachion and its utility as reinforcement filler in the polymer matrix for the development of biocomposites. The cellulose fibre was isolated by alkali treatment, followed by chlorine free bleaching using hydrogen peroxide. The SEM and FTIR analyses revealed removal of hemicelluloses and lignin. The X-ray diffraction analysis showed increased crystallinity and the TGA and DTG curves indicated greater thermal stability of the isolated fibre compared to the raw fibre. The cellulose fibre was used as reinforcement in ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber to prepare biocomposites. The cure characteristics and mechanical properties of the composites were investigated. The maximum torque and the mechanical properties varied by the addition of the filler in the matrix. The SEM images of the composites showed good adhesion of the cellulose fiber in the EPDM matrix. The biodegradability of the composites was confirmed by the soil burial test. The test revealed that the percentage degradation in tensile strength increased with filler loading, indicating that the composites are environmentally friendly and biodegradable.
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