Physicochemical, Thermal And Mechanical Properties of Novel Cellulosic Fiber Extracted from Ficus Retusa

Abstract

ABSTRACT Natural fibers play a vital role in reducing the greenhouse gas emission caused due to the use of synthetic fibers for composite making. Many novel natural fibers with promising characteristics required for reinforcing polymer matrices remain unexplored. In the present study, an attempt has been made to bring out the potentials of novel cellulosic fiber obtained from the bark of Ficus retusa. Various tests such as chemical, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric, differential scanning calorimetry, tensile, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy were performed on FR fibers. Cellulose (55.19 wt. %), hemicellulose (20.65 wt.%), lignin (20.87 wt.%), pectin (6.44 wt.%) and wax (2.80 wt.%) of FRFs were identified though chemical tests. X-ray diffraction revealed the crystallinity index (37.25%) and crystallite size (2.29 nm) of FRFs. Thermogravimetric analysis showed the ability of FRF to withstand 335.87°C and was found to exhibit activation energy of 64.38 kJ/mol. The tensile strength and Young’s modulus of FRF was found to be 189.50–302.50 MPa and10.31–14.37 GPa. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed the atomic and weight percentages of various elements present at the fiber surface. Morphology of FR fiber surface examined through FESEM confirmed the existence of rough surface with some serrations and with porous honey combed structure. Higher crystallinity index, superior mechanical properties and higher thermal stability of FRF makes them suitable for eco-friendly composite making.