Corn Husk Fiber Research Articles

From cornfield to catalyst support: Eco-friendly synthesis of Cu/CuO nanoparticles, immobilization on the waste corn husk fibers, photocatalytic exploration and bioactivity evaluation

This study presents an innovative approach to eco-friendly synthesis and utilization of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) for photocatalytic applications, employing waste corn husk fibers as sustainable catalyst support. The synthesis of CuNPs was achieved through a green synthesis method utilizing myrtle extract. Subsequently, the remarkable photocatalytic activity of the CuNPs explored (76% removal efficiency of Crystal Violet), showcased their potential in environmental remediation applications. Furthermore, the immobilization of CuNPs onto waste corn husk fibers was investigated, aiming to develop a novel composite material with enhanced catalytic performance. A distinctive approach was introduced by immobilizing CuNPs onto fibers derived from corn husks, and waste biomass material, leading to a significant enhancement in photocatalytic efficiency, surpassing 95.1%. Furthermore, bioactivity evaluation studies revealed the significant antioxidant, antidiabetic, DNA fragmentation, cell viability, antibiofilm and antimicrobial properties of CuNPs. The antioxidant ability was determined at 100 mg/L as 87.12%. The most powerful antimicrobial activity of CuNP was found as a MIC value of 8 mg/L against E. faecalis. The cell viability inhibition of CuNP was 90.05% at 20 mg/L. CuNP exhibited biofilm inhibition activity at different concentrations. The antibiofilm ability was investigated against Staphylococcus aureus compared to Pseudomonas aureginosa. While the DNA cleavage activity of CuNP observed double-strand breaks at 50 and 100 mg, complete fragmentation occurred at 200 mg concentrations. The bioactivity of the synthesized CuNPs shed light on their potential biomedical applications. The synthesized CuNPs are characterized using various analytical techniques to elucidate their structural and morphological properties. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis provided insights into the chemical composition and surface properties of the synthesized materials. EDS analysis confirmed their successful integration into waste corn husk fibers. Overall, this interdisciplinary study highlights the potential of CuNPs immobilized on waste corn husk fibers for addressing environmental pollution, advancing sustainable technologies and paving the way for the development of efficient catalysts with diverse functionalities.

Enzymatic extraction and characterization of nanocellulose from cornhusk fiber

Enzymatic extraction and characterization of nanocellulose from cornhusk fiber

Pengaruh Penggunaan Serat Kulit Jagung dan Abu Sekam Padi Sebagai Bahan Campuran Pembuatan Asbes Plafon

Agricultural waste is one of the most common sources of waste in Indonesia, corn husk fiber and rice husk ash are examples of this agricultural waste. In this study, corn husk fiber and rice husk ash were used as a mixture for making asbestos ceilings. This study used an experimental method by using corn husk fiber as a substitute for fiberglass fiber and rice husk ash as a partial substitute for cement. Corn husk fiber has high flexural properties which are assumed to be able to replace fiberglass fibers in the manufacture of asbestos ceilings. Meanwhile, rice husk ash contains silica (SIO2), which is one of the compositions of cement. Therefore, it is proposed to innovate the use of corn husk fiber and rice husk ash as a mixed ingredient for making asbestos ceilings which aim to minimize existing waste and create environmentally friendly asbestos ceilings that have better flexural strength and water absorption than conventional asbestos ceilings. This innovation is expected to produce a more economical price.

Natural Aging of Reprocessed Polypropylene Composites Filled with Sustainable Corn Fibers.

Natural fiber reinforcements have the potential to enhance mechanical properties, thereby improving performance and durability in various applications. In this study, we comprehensively evaluated the impact of environmental degradation over 120 days on reprocessed polypropylene (PP) reinforced with corn husk fiber (CHF) composites. The manufactured systems underwent rigorous analysis using various techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and tensile testing. These analyses revealed that climatic conditions significantly influenced (p < 0.05) the mechanical properties of all systems. Photodegradation led to surface morphological changes and chemical structures. Regardless, adding CHF filler proved a key factor, as it allowed for less susceptibility to environmental degradation than the reprocessed matrix. These findings, therefore, provide robust evidence supporting the feasibility of using CHF composites for manufacturing agricultural containers.

A facile detachable catalyst support: Green synthesis of Ag nanoparticles, immobilizing into waste corn husk fibers, evaluation of photocatalytic performance and bioactivity analysis

The escalating demand for metallic nanoparticles (Nps) is propelled by their expanding utility in environmental and biomedical disciplines. To enhance the efficiency of wastewater treatment, nanotechnology, renowned for its environmentally friendly properties, has been strategically employed. Nano-metals, distinguished for their photocatalytic and antimicrobial capabilities, were harnessed in this investigation. A biochemical synthesis method involving the green synthesis of environmentally friendly and non-toxic AgNps, utilizing Myrtus communis leaf extract, was implemented. The subsequent immobilization of these synthesized nanoparticles into corn husk fibers facilitated the photocatalytic degradation of Crystal Violet dye, yielding an impressive 96 % removal efficiency. The optimization of methodologies using Central Composite Design was validated through ANOVA. Surface properties were comprehensively assessed through SEM-EDS and FT-IR analyses, while crystal structure elucidation was achieved via XRD analysis. The synthesized AgNps showcased notable antioxidant activity, registering 90.61 % efficacy even at a modest concentration of 100 mg/L. Microdilution assays underscored the consequential antibacterial and antifungal activities against diverse microorganisms. Notably, AgNps exhibited substantial antibiofilm efficacy, reaching peak rates of 89.63 % and 81.75 % against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa at 20 mg/L, respectively. Furthermore, E. coli cell viability was markedly impeded, displaying a 95.87 % reduction compared to the control at a concentration of 20 mg/L. In summation, AgNps manifest noteworthy antimicrobial, antioxidant, cell viability, and antidiabetic potential. Their integration into photocatalytic processes offers a nuanced strategy for environmental remediation, coupling heightened pollutant degradation with inherent antibacterial attributes, thereby advancing the evolution of effective and sustainable water treatment technologies.

Development of silane-treated corn husk fiber and agro-waste biofiller-reinforced epoxy composite: effects on wear, mechanical, thermal, and water absorption properties

Development of silane-treated corn husk fiber and agro-waste biofiller-reinforced epoxy composite: effects on wear, mechanical, thermal, and water absorption properties

Defining application areas of corn husk fibre by studying its characteristics.

Natural fibres have attracted more attention compared with synthetic fibre because they exhibit several benefits over synthetic fibre, such as being cost-effective, readily available, and lightweight apart from offering better mechanical properties. Corn husk fibres being a natural crop fibre have attracted more attention due to their renewability and biodegradability. Corn husk is an outer protective layer of maize which is generally discarded as waste. However, this agro-waste can be utilized exclusively for various applications with a sustainable approach by extracting fibres out of them. This paper aims to revolutionize the usage of corn husk fibres in conventional as well as technical textile industries by enlisting various application areas. A comprehensive understanding of corn husk fibre extraction techniques and their effect on various fibre properties are also discussed. These properties are compared with properties of other natural fibres, to enable the possibility of converting corn husk fibres into different textile forms such as yarn, woven and nonwoven fabric, and composites. This will fulfill the increasing demand for natural fibre along with biodegradability and reduced petroleum dependency while contributing to the purpose-driven use of agro waste.

Influence of NaOH treatment on physical, chemical, thermal, and morphological behavior of aloe vera, banana, and corn husk fiber

Influence of NaOH treatment on physical, chemical, thermal, and morphological behavior of aloe vera, banana, and corn husk fiber

Birnessite-Type MnO2 Modified Sustainable Biomass Fiber toward Adsorption Removal Heavy Metal Ion from Actual River Aquatic Environment.

In this work, a novel birnessite-type MnO2 modified corn husk sustainable biomass fiber (MnO2@CHF) adsorbent was fabricated for efficient cadmium (Cd) removal from aquatic environments. MnO2@CHF was designed from KMnO4 hydrothermally treated with corn husk fibers. Various characterization revealed that MnO2@CHF possessed the hierarchical structure nanosheets, large specific surface area, and multiple oxygen-containing functional groups. Batch adsorption experimental results indicated that the highest Cd (II) removal rate could be obtained at the optimal conditions of adsorbent amount of 0.200 g/L, adsorption time of 600 min, pH 6.00, and temperature of 40.0 °C. Adsorption isotherm and kinetics results showed that Cd (II) adsorption behavior on MnO2@CHF was a monolayer adsorption process and dominated by chemisorption and intraparticle diffusion. The optimum adsorption capacity (Langmuir model) of Cd (II) on MnO2@CHF was 23.0 mg/g, which was higher than those of other reported common biomass adsorbent materials. Further investigation indicated that the adsorption of Cd (II) on MnO2@CHF involved mainly ion exchange, surface complexation, redox reaction, and electrostatic attraction. Moreover, the maximum Cd (II) removal rate on MnO2@CHF from natural river samples (Xicheng Canal) could reach 59.2% during the first cycle test. This study showed that MnO2@CHF was an ideal candidate in Cd (II) practical application treatment, providing references for resource utilization of agricultural wastes for heavy metal removal.

Green building adaptation in hot-humid climates: assessment of coconut and corn husk fiber composite bricks as energy-efficient building envelopes

PurposeThis study has assessed the thermal performance of locally fabricated bio-based building envelopes made of coconut and corn husk composite bricks to reduce building wall heat transmission load and energy consumption towards green building adaptation.Design/methodology/approachSamples of coconut fiber (coir) and corn husk fiber bricks were fabricated and tested for their thermophysical properties using the Transient Plane Source (TPS) 2500s instrument. A simulation was conducted using Dynamic Energy Response of Building - Lunds Tekniska Hogskola (DEROB-LTH) to determine indoor temperature variation over 24 h. The time lag and decrement factor, two important parameters in evaluating building envelopes, were also determined.FindingsThe time lag of the bio-based composite building envelope was found to be in the range of 4.2–4.6 h for 100 mm thickness block and 10.64–11.5 h for 200 mm thickness block. The decrement factor was also determined to be in the range of 0.87–0.88. The bio-based composite building envelopes were able to maintain the indoor temperature of the model from 25.4 to 27.4 °C, providing a closely stable indoor thermal comfort despite varying outdoor temperatures. The temperature variation in 24 h, was very stable for about 8 h before a degree increment, providing a comfortable indoor temperature for occupants and the need not to rely on air conditions and other mechanical forms of cooling. Potential energy savings also peaked at 529.14 kWh per year.Practical implicationsThe findings of this study present opportunities to building developers and engineers in terms of selecting vernacular materials for building envelopes towards green building adaptation, energy savings, reduced construction costs and job creation.Originality/valueThis study presents for the first time, time lag and decrement factor for bio-based composite building envelopes for green building adaptation in hot climates, as found in Ghana.

Physical Properties of Polymer Concrete Utilizing Pahae Natural Zeolite, Corn Husk Fiber, and Polyurethane Resin Adhesives

This study aimed to determine the optimum composition in the manufacture of polymer concrete using Pahae natural zeolite, corn husk fiber, and polyurethane resin adhesives. This study used the hot-press method at 170℃ for 30 minutes. The compositions of zeolite and corn husk fiber tested were varied under three different additions of polyurethane resin of 15 g, 20 g, and 25 g, while the composition of sand was fixed at 60 g. The inclusion of corn husk fiber content reduces the density of the concrete and increases the porosity and water absorption. The physical properties analysis showed that the polymer concrete samples showed the highest density was 1.89 g/cm3 from 20 g of polyurethane resin and no addition of corn husk fiber; the highest porosity was 6.15% from 15 g of polyurethane resin and 10 g of corn husk fiber; and the highest water absorption was 5.85% from 15 g of polyurethane resin and 10 g of corn husk fiber. Because improved material quality and durability are linked to reduced water absorption rates in polymer concrete, the most favorable composition with minimal water absorption (0.51%) came from the sample utilizing 20 grams of polyurethane resin without incorporating corn husk fiber.

Manufacturing and Characterization of Composite Boards from Corn Husk Fiber, Water Hyacinth Fibers, and Sawdust Using Epoxy Resin

Composite board has been made with corn husk fiber (CHF), water hyacinth fiber, and wood sawdust using epoxy resin as an adhesive. The composition of each fiberwas varied, and physical tests (density, porosity, water absorption, and thickness expansion) and mechanical tests (modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), and compressive strength) were carried out, and microstructure was analyzed using SEM-EDX. The results of testing the physical and mechanicalproperties with optimum results were density of 1.03 g/cm3, porosity of 10.48%, water absorption capacity of 10.22%, thickness expansion of 2.91%, MOR 256.05kgf/cm2, MOE 228 kgf/cm2 and compressive strength of 3.19 MPa. The results showed that the physical (porosity, absorption, and thickness expansion) and mechanical (MOR and compressive strength) tests met the standards of SNI 03-2105-2006, while the MOE test did not meet the standards. For density testing, it complies with SNI 01-4449-2006 standards. The composite board can be used as a substitute for wood for furniture materials.

The Effect of Fibre Content on Mechanical Properties, Water Absorption and Morphology of Corn Husk Fibre Reinforced HDPE/POE Biocomposites

In this work, composition ratios of high-density polyethylene and polyolefin elastomer (HDPE/POE) for 60:40 and 40:60 were prepared with 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% of corn husk fibre (CHF) by using an internal mixer. The effects of CHF content on mechanical properties, water absorption and morphology on the biocomposites were investigated. The tensile strength for the biocomposites 60:40 ratio displayed optimum at 20% of fibre content; while the biocomposites 40:60 ratio has decreasing tensile strength from 10% to 30% of fibre content. The more fibre is needed to hold the matrix in place for biocomposites with POE dominance. At all compositions, the tensile modulus for the biocomposites 60:40 and 40:60 HDPE/POE ratios exhibited increasing patterns. However, the results of impact strength and elongation at break for the 60:40 and 40:60 ratios showed declining trends. The results demonstrate the addition of CHF increases the stiffness of the HDPE/POE matrix while decreasing the composites' flexibility. The water absorption biocomposites 60:40 ratio was higher than 40:60 ratio at all compositions due to a better surface interaction in composition HDPE/POE with 40:60 compared to 60:40 ratio, and also revealed by morphological studies on fracture surface biocomposites by using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM).

Pengaruh Penambahan Serat Kulit Jagung Terhadap Sifat Mekanik Komposit Polipropilena (PP) dengan Penambahan Aluminium Oksida (Al2O3) dan Maleat Anhidrida (MAH) sebagai Coupling Agent

The utilization of polymer composites in the automotive field is expanding due to their characteristics such as strength, stiffness, and light weight. Polypropylene (PP) is one of the thermoplastic polymers widely used in composite manufacturing due to its lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and recyclable properties. However, to improve its mechanical properties, modifications using natural reinforcements and coupling agents continue to be made. Corn husk fiber is a natural resource that has potential as a natural reinforcement in polymer composites, it has the advantages of good tensile strength, light weight, and is biodegradable. The addition of Aluminium Oxide (Al2O3) and Maleic Anhydride (MAH) as coupling agent can improve the adhesion between fiber and polymer matrix, support more even load distribution, and optimize the mechanical properties of the composite Al2O3 and MAH on the mechanical properties of PP composites. The composition used was polypropylene: corn husk fiber rasio :Al2O3: MAH, namely 90:5:5:0, 89:5:5:1, 87:5:5:3, and 85:5:5:5% by weight. Tensile strength test using Universal Testing Machine (UTM) and crystallinity test using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) were conducted to evaluate the material performance. The highest value of tensile strength and crystallinity in the composition with 0 %weight MAH. The results of these tests, showing that the greater the composition of corn husk fiber has an influence on the decrease in tensile strength and crystallinity of the composite.

Bending, Tensile and Water Absoption Test of Corn Husk and Glass Fibre Reinforced Composite For Different Composition

Now a day, there is a huge trend in research and development of bio-based products which have a wide variety of replacement for naturally existing materials. The current research intends to determine the qualities of a composite laminate material consisting of maize husk and glass fibre. The composite is created by alternately overlaying glass fibre cloths on corn husk fibre layers. The required composition and thickness are achieved by calculation of number of the layer of each fibres. The epoxy resin and hardener by weight is mixed in the ratio 10:1 respectively. It is poured between the layers of the composite to generate adhesion. Hand lay-up technique is adopted in manufacturing of the material and the material is pressed for certain duration using nut and bolt template assembly allowing it for natural curing. The composite is been tested for bending, tensile and water absorption tests according to standards.

Effects of corn husk fiber as filler in recycled single‐use polypropylene for fused filament fabrication

AbstractFused filament fabrication (FFF) is one of the most popular 3D printing approaches among end‐users due to its lower cost, ease of operation, and wide range of material choices. However, the use of composite filament produced from recycled plastic and agriculture waste is still relatively uncommon. This research focuses on developing composite filament from corn husk fiber (CHF) and recycled single‐use polypropylene for FFF. In this work, neat recycled polypropylene (rPP) and rPP/CHF composites were extruded into filament for FFF printing. It was observed that increasing the CHF content would reduce the print quality of the parts, as visible air gaps and voids were found on the printed surface and within the layers. Nevertheless, these issues were able to be overcome by adjusting the printing temperature and increasing the extrusion percentage during the printing process. The melt flow index results indicate that a higher CHF content would reduce the melt flow of the extruded rPP/CHF composite during printing, potentially affecting the quality of the printed parts. On the other hand, increasing the temperature enhanced the melt flow of the composite, which was beneficial for the printing process. When a small amount of CHF was added to the rPP, the printed part exhibited the highest tensile strength due to the reinforcing effect of the fibers. However, the tensile strength of printed parts using rPP/CHF composite filament decreased with higher CHF content. Additionally, higher CHF content resulted in printed composite parts that were more rigid and stiffer. It also reduced warpage on the printed specimens made with this composite, but it is important to note that warpage of the printed specimen is not directly correlated to crystallinity caused by nucleating effect of CHF. The rPP/CHF composite filament did exhibit earlier thermal degradation due to the addition of more CHF. However, this should not affect the printing process when temperature not beyond 230°C. This study highlights the potential of utilizing single‐use PP and fibers extracted from corn husk as feedstock for 3D printing. The findings expand the possibilities for recycling and employing agricultural waste in sustainable additive manufacturing processes.Highlights Utilizes single‐use PP and CHF in developing composite filaments, contributing to sustainability and reducing plastic waste. This research offers a sustainable approach by utilizing waste materials as feedstock for FFF‐based 3D printing, which able to reduce the environmental pollution caused by disposal of single‐use plastic and promotes recycling practices.

The potential of using sweet corn (Zea mays Saccharata) husk waste as a source for biodegradable plastics

Synthetic plastics are generally challenging to degrade in the environment and capable of releasing harmful chemicals upon improper disposal, endangering both wildlife and humans. Therefore, this study aimed to develop cellulose-based bioplastics from corn husk waste and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) using sorbitol as a plasticizer. The effect of corn husk delignification, CMC addition, and variations in sorbitol concentration were investigated. The results of Chesson's test showed that the delignification process increased cellulose content to 77.30% and decreased lignin content to 3.6%. Additionally, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) demonstrated the effective removal of lignin and hemicellulose components from corn husk fibers. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis indicated the elevation of corn husk crystallinity from 63.97% to 80.83% after the treatment. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed bioplastic morphologies featuring porous and smooth surfaces juxtaposed with uneven and lumpy characteristics. Biodegradation assessment yielded a peak value of 33.4% under a composition comprising 3% CMC and 1.5% sorbitol. The swelling test performed on corn husk bioplastic samples produced values ranging from 52.89 to 66%, with the highest value recorded at 66% for the bioplastic formulation consisting of 3% CMC and 1.5% sorbitol. Resistance testing on samples containing 3% CMC, with a soaking time of four days in acidic environments, indicated a maximum weight loss of 61.3% (10% H2SO4) and 62.5% (20% H2SO4). Alkaline resistance tests displayed a 95.6% (10% NaOH) and 94.6% (20% NaOH) weight loss under similar conditions. These results suggested the potential utility of corn husk waste as a viable bioplastic source, promoting the circular economy concept in Indonesia while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, reducing waste volume, and increasing rural economic growth.

Fabrication and Analysis of Thermal Insulation Ceiling Panel from Corn Husk Fiber

Every year, the Philippines experiences hot and rainy weather. For those who choose to remain at home, summer feels like torture. So, Filipinos have no choice but to turn on their air-conditioning system, which can cause their electricity bill to skyrocket. Corn husk fibers, being a waste product, have great potential to be applied in home textiles, home furnishing, carpet, rugs, and packaging of food grains and crops. The researchers thought of making thermal insulation ceiling panels made of corn husk fibers. The study yielded a result of 0.119 W/m.K for thermal conductivity using a calibrated hot box, below the 0.25 W/m.K maximum threshold for thermal conductivity value. Furthermore, its fire resistance characteristic made it less susceptible to small fire attacks. It was also found that the insulator has 2.19% and 8.42% water absorption values for short and long-term soaking, which is less than the 40% range value for water absorption. Hence, it can be said that it is an excellent thermal insulator.

Waste corn husk fibers for sound absorption and thermal insulation applications: A step towards sustainable buildings

In the last decade, noise pollution and global warming and their effects on human health and the environment have received much attention. Building sectors are one of the most important areas for potential improvements. To this end, sound-absorbing and thermal insulation construction materials are being used effectively. Recently, a great deal of interest has arisen in using various natural fibers as sound-absorbing and/or thermal insulation materials. In line with these studies, this work investigates the acoustic absorption and thermal insulation characteristics of corn husk fiber (CHF). The results showed that the samples enjoy excellent noise reduction coefficients of 0.36–60 and effective thermal conductivities of 0.038–0.042 W/mK. It was found that the thermal insulation properties of CHFs are not significantly influenced by the moisture content. The Dunn and Davern (DD) model and a modified model of DD based on the Nelder-Mead simplex algorithm were also used to predict the acoustic behavior of the samples. It was found that the proposed model provides very excellent prediction accuracy.

Sustainable and photoresponse triboelectric nanogenerators based on 2D-gC3N4 and agricultural wastes

Two bio-friendly and photoactive triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) are introduced, employing sustainable and biocompatible materials as functional components. The TENGs utilize corn husk and coconut coir fibers as the positive layers and incorporate two-dimensional graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) nanosheets as negative layers. Upon simple biomechanical forces, the optimized devices fabricated from corn husk and coconut fibers produce a maximum output voltage of 630 V and 581 V, respectively. Under short-circuit conditions, the measured current was approximately 0.79 mA for corn husk-TENG and 11.47 mA for coconut fibers-TENG. Also, the maximum output power of 131 mW and 1980 mW were achieved over a 2 × 2 cm2 area of corn husk-TENG and coconut fibers-TENG. The TENGs were also tested under blue commercial lights and UV light, and an increase of approximately 1.5 times was observed in the output voltages of both TENGs under UV light. These g-C3N4-based TENGs perform superior under UV illumination and can be used as nanogenerators and active photosensors. This paper proposes two eco-environmentally friendly and robust electronic devices for energy harvesting and photo-sensing applications based on two agricultural wastes, corn husk, and coconut coir fibers.