Natural Fibers Research Articles

Sustainable Fruit Preservation Using Algae-Based Bioactive Coatings on Textile Packaging

This study explores the potential of using natural textile packaging infused with algae-based coatings as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic packaging for extending fruit shelf life. Traditional plastic packaging is known to release harmful chemicals into both food and the environment, which underscores the need for safer, more sustainable alternatives. This study investigates algae from three distinct groups—green, red, and brown algae—renowned for their rich bioactive compounds that exhibit natural preservative properties. Algae powders were prepared via immersion in purified water, boiling, and mixing with gum arabic to form a gelatinous coating solution. The algae coating was applied to knitted fabric, which was then crafted into bags for storing fruits such as tomatoes and apples. Over 21 days, the texture, weight loss, and juice content of the fruits stored in algae-coated bags were monitored and compared to those stored in uncoated packaging. The results showed that fruits in algae-coated packaging demonstrated significantly less weight loss and retained better texture. In terms of weight, the combination of red, green, and brown algae-coated packaging demonstrated the lowest reduction in weight for tomatoes (4.2%) and apples (3.8%) after 21 days, outperforming uncoated packaging, which exhibited reductions of 11.2% and 10.8%, respectively. These findings support the potential of algae-coated textile packaging to reduce reliance on conventional plastics while maintaining fruit quality during storage.

A New CDM-Based Approach for the Nonlinear Numerical Structural Analysis of Flax Fiber Reinforced Plastic

Fibre-reinforced polymers based on natural fibers, such as flax fibers, exhibit pronounced nonlinear orthotropic material behavior. This presents a significant challenge in finite element analysis (FEA) simulations, as the nonlinear constitutive models available in commercial FEA tools are difficult to apply and fail to capture all the material’s specific characteristics. Relying on initial or reduced secant moduli in linear quasi-static analyses of deformations or stress states can result in inaccurate outcomes and overly optimistic strength predictions, particularly in compression-dominated cases. However, with appropriate modifications, classical laminate theory (CLT) can be adapted for nonlinear analysis. This involves iteratively updating the components of the stiffness matrix for the unidirectional (UD) ply during the calculation process based on the current strain state and stress interactions. This study presents and discusses a computational algorithm for the FEA software ABAQUS/CAE 2019, which incorporates material-related orthotropic nonlinearities and stress-dependent interactions within the CLT framework. The algorithm represents a single-scale material model at the meso level (UD ply) and is based on the concept of orthotropic elasto-damage within the framework of continuum damage mechanics (CDM) theory. Numerical implementation is achieved through a user-defined field (USDFLD) subroutine, accompanied by a pre-processing Python script for managing experimental data, computing data fields, and calculating parameters. As shown below, this type of implementation appears justified compared to a user material subroutine (UMAT) subroutine in terms of computational efficiency and practicality.

Ultrasonic-Assisted alkali and polyvinyl alcohol treatment for enhancing the mechanical of sisal fiber and interfacial properties with starch

ABSTRACT Sisal fibers treated with alkali and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) through ultrasonic impregnation yield various modified fibers with enhanced properties. In this study, the influence of PVA adhesion on the tensile strength, water absorption and thermal stability of individual fiber and the change of interfacial shear strength with starch were investigated. The fiber was characterized by infrared spectroscopy and electron microscope. Results reveal that PVA not only coats the surface but also penetrates the fibers, significantly improving tensile strength. Weibull distribution analysis showed that the tensile strength of ASF increased by 42.99% and the interfacial shear strength increased by 140.5%. The tensile strength of the PSF-1.0, analyzed using Weibull distribution, increased by 50.1%, and the interfacial shear strength improved by 112.9%. The study confirms that alkali and PVA treatment is a cost-effective, biodegradable method to enhance the tensile and interfacial binding properties of natural fibers, making them suitable for reinforced starch-based composites.

Enhancing Polylactic Acid (PLA) Performance: A Review of Additives in Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) Filaments

This review explores the impact of various additives on the mechanical properties of polylactic acid (PLA) filaments used in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing. While PLA is favored for its biodegradability and ease of use, its inherent limitations in strength and heat resistance necessitate enhancements through additives. The impact of natural and synthetic fibers, inorganic particles, and nanomaterials on the mechanical properties, printability, and overall functionality of PLA composites was examined, indicating that fiber reinforcements, such as carbon and glass fibers, significantly enhance tensile strength and stiffness, while natural fibers contribute to sustainability but may compromise mechanical stability. Additionally, the inclusion of inorganic particulate fillers like calcium carbonate improves dimensional stability and printability, although larger particles can lead to agglomeration issues. The study highlights the potential for improved performance in specific applications while acknowledging the need for further investigation into optimal formulations and processing conditions.

Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Sabai Grass (Eulaliopsis binata) Fibers and Epoxy Resin Composite Laminates Using Fly Ash as Filler Material

The integration of sabai grass fibers and fly ash in epoxy resin combines the strengths of both materials for developing a tailor-made composite laminate that balances performance, sustainability, and cost-efficiency. This innovative blend of natural fibers and industrial waste promotes environmental conservation. The laminates produced could also be used in diverse industrial and structural applications. This study investigated the mechanical properties of composite laminates reinforced with sabai grass fibers, fly ash filler, and epoxy resin as the matrix. In this work, the hand lay-up method was used to fabricate composites with two stacking configurations ((0°/0°/0°/0°) and (0°/90°/90°/0°)) and filler contents of 1.5 wt.%, 3 wt.%, and 5 wt.%. Various weight fractions of fly ash filler and sabai grass fiber were integrated into the epoxy resin to evaluate their impact on tensile strength, flexural strength, and hardness. The experimental results indicate that adding fly ash significantly improves the composite’s hardness to 27 HV in the composites containing 5 wt.% filler, while sabai grass fibers contribute to enhanced tensile strength and flexural strength. The composites with (0°/0°/0°/0°) fibers and 5 wt.% filler showed a higher tensile strength of 63.5 MPa and flexural strength of 118.5 MPa. The fractured sample was analyzed with the help of FESEM images. The XRD analysis confirmed the presence of fly ash components suitable for forming a bond with epoxy. EDX was conducted to determine the elemental composition of the fly ash. FTIR analysis verified the removal of impurities such as dust, dirt, and lignin from the fiber surface following NaOH treatment.

Improving the Long-Term Mechanical Properties of Thermoplastic Short Natural Fiber Compounds by Using Alternative Matrices

Wood plastic composites (WPCs) offer a means to reduce the carbon footprint by incorporating natural fibers to enhance the mechanical properties. However, there is limited information on the mechanical properties of these materials under hostile conditions. This study evaluated composites of polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and polylactic acid (PLA) processed via extrusion and injection molding. Tests were conducted on tensile and flexural strength and modulus, heat deflection temperature (HDT), and creep analysis under varying relative humidity conditions (10% and 90%) and water immersion, followed by freeze—thaw cycles. The addition of fibers generally improved the mechanical properties but increased water absorption. HDT and creep were dependent on the crystallinity of the composites. PLA and PS demonstrated a superior overall performance, except for their impact properties, where PP was slightly better than PLA.

Evaluation of Impact Energy Absorption by Natural Fiber Composites in Motorcycle Helmets

In response to the growing concerns regarding motorcyclists’ safety and advancements in the motorcycle industry, this study investigated the potential of natural fibers as a sustainable approach for enhancing helmet protection, thus replacing the traditional use of expanded polystyrene. Utilizing statistical tools such as the Shapiro–Wilk test, Chauvenet’s criterion, and the interquartile range, we compared the impact energy absorption of composites reinforced with natural fibers, including sugarcane bagasse, coconut, and sisal, added to expanded polyurethane prototypes. The results, evaluated through confidence intervals, indicated that composites reinforced with 5% sugarcane bagasse, 5% and 10% coconut, and 10% and 15% sisal exhibited significantly superior impact absorption performance compared to pure expanded polyurethane. Composites with agave sisalana fibers exhibited low variability and reliable performance, with the 10% concentration showing the best results. Sugarcane bagasse fiber demonstrated strong stability, especially at a 5% concentration. Coconut fiber performed well at both 5% and 10% concentrations but showed the greatest variability among the fibers tested. These findings underscore the potential of natural fibers in enhancing helmet safety and suggest promising directions for future research into the ideal composite materials for motorcycle helmets, an inquiry that is currently underway.

Numerical Modelling of Hybrid Polymer Composite Frame for Selected Construction Parts and Experimental Validation of Mechanical Properties

This article is a numerical and experimental study of the mechanical properties of different glass, flax and hybrid composites. By utilizing hybrid composites consisting of natural fibers, the aim is to eventually reduce the percentage usage of synthetic or man-made fibers in composites and obtain similar levels of mechanical properties that are offered by composites using synthetic fibers. This in turn would lead to greener composites being utilized. The advantage of which would be the presence of similar mechanical properties as those of composites made from synthetic fibers along with a reduction in the overall weight of components, leading to much more eco-friendly vehicles. Finite element simulations (FEM) of mechanical properties were performed using ANSYS. The FEM simulations and analysis were performed using standards as required. Subsequently, actual beams/frames with a defined geometry were fabricated for applications in automotive body construction. The tensile performance of such frames was also simulated using ANSYS-based models and was experimentally verified. A correlation with the results of the FEM simulations of mechanical properties was established. The maximum tensile strength of 415 MPa was found for sample 1: G-E (glass–epoxy composite) and the minimum strength of 146 MPa was found for sample 2: F-G-E (G-4) (flax–glass–epoxy composite). The trends were similar, as obtained by simulation using ANSYS. A comparison of the results showed the accuracy of the numerical simulation and experimental specimens with a maximum error of about 8.05%. The experimental study of the tensile properties of polymer matrix composites was supplemented with interlaminar shear strength, and a high accuracy was found. Further, the maximum interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) of 18.5 MPa was observed for sample 1: G-E and the minimum ILSS of 17.0 MPa was observed for sample 2: F-G-E (G-4). The internal fractures were analyzed using a computer tomography analyzer (CTAn). Sample 2: F-G-E (G-4) showed significant interlaminar cracking, while sample 1: G-E showed fiber failure through the cross section rather than interlaminar failure. The results indicate a practical solution of a polymer composite frame as a replacement for existing heavier components in a car, thus helping towards weight reduction and fuel efficiency.

A Review on Mechanical Improvements and Environmental Benefits of Rice Husk Reinforced Polymer Composites

The continuous advancement in science and technology necessitates the development of engineering materials tailored to specific requirements and cost-effective with minimal energy consumption. Consequently, there has been a surge in research dedicated to the fabrication of composite materials. Traditionally, the inclusion of synthetic fibers like glass or carbon is a common practice to reinforce composites and impart the necessary properties. However, their slow biodegradability poses environmental concerns, driving interest in natural fibers as substitutes. Rice husk (RH), a byproduct of rice milling, stands out as one of the most abundant agricultural wastes globally. Incorporating rice husk into polymer matrices is cost-effective and offers improved mechanical properties, low density and biodegradability etc. Various surface treatment techniques like alkaline treatment, benzoylation, acetylation and silane treatment etc., are explored to improve the integration of rice husk with base polymer, thereby imparting improved mechanical properties to composites. The present article provides an extensive review of literature regarding the prospective use of rice husk as reinforcement in various polymer matrices, highlighting primarily the mechanical attributes of polymer composites. Existing literature spanning the last 20 years has been extensively explored to analyse the impact of utilizing RH on the mechanical attributes of RH-reinforced polymeric materials. Future research directions are also highlighted, emphasizing the need for further exploration and optimization of rice husk-based composites for diverse industrial applications.

Selective separation of tanshinone homologs by biocomposite membranes based on poly(ionic liquids) and natural fibers.

Membranes have been used as versatile tools for the separation of various natural products; however, the selective separation of structural analogs of natural products using membranes remains challenging. In this study, biocomposite membranes based on poly(ionic liquids) and different natural fibers (jute, cotton, or wool) were successfully prepared. Natural fibers can regulate the microstructure and improve the mechanical properties of membranes. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller analysis, and thermo gravimetric analysis were used to characterize the membranes. The membranes were used to separate tanshinone homologs (tanshinone I, tanshinone IIA, cryptotanshinone, and dihydrotanshinone I), allowing cryptotanshinone to penetrate the membrane while rejecting tanshinone I. A maximal selectivity of 44.57% was obtained for the tanshinone homologs using a one-step separation protocol. These poly(ionic liquids)/natural fiber membranes possess high water flux, good self-cleaning, and good antibacterial properties. The membranes were effective in separating tanshinone homologs and have the potential to separate other natural homologs.

Flame Retardancy and Heat Shielding in Green Polypropylene Composites Using Biohybrid Fibers and Agro-Waste Fillers.

The current work presents the flame-retardant performance of hybrid polypropylene composites, reinforced with specific short woven flax fabrics (SWFs), short basalt fibers (BFs), and rice husk powder (RHP), using polypropylene grafted maleic anhydride (MAPP) as the coupling agent. Horizontal burning test (HBT), microcalorimeter test (MCT), and cone calorimeter test (CCT) were conducted on these composites. The formulations used were 25% SWF/PP, 25% SWF/20% BF/PP, and 25% SWF/20% BF/PP with 6% RHP and 25% SWF/20% BF/PP with varying RHP contents (6, 12, and 18%) in combination with 6% MAPP. A peak heat release rate (pHRR) reduction of 14.42% was recorded in microcalorimeter test results. However, cone calorimeter test results indicated a reduction of 80.95% in pHRR and 23.84% in total heat release rate (THR). Furthermore, the emissions of CO and CO2 were reduced by 68 and 67%, respectively, in the 25SWF/20BF/PP.6MAPP-18RHP composite compared to pure PP, indicating an overall improvement in combustion efficiency. Fire performance index (FPI) also improved remarkably: FPI increased by 130% and fire growth index (FGI) improved by 81.34%. Moreover, the horizontal burning test showed an improved performance, with the burning rate further reduced by 11.10% compared to that of the 25% SWF/PP composite. These results highlight the synergy among natural fibers, agro-waste fillers, and MAPP in improving flame retardancy of polypropylene composites, and hence their potential application in automobiles and construction, where the demand for fire safety is very high.

Dynamic Mechanical Analysis of Aegle Marmelos / Epoxy matrix Reinforced with Snake Grass Fibre Composite

Nowadays, Manufacturing and automotive industries have begun to employ renewable resources as a result of public awareness and rigorous legal requirements relating to the usage of polymers. This study has focused on employing Snake Grass (SG) fiber as reinforcement in Aegle Marmelos with Epoxy blended hybrid matrix (AME), since natural fiber reinforced composites provide a significant role in the development of lightweight structural components. The primary study investigated the effects of fibre length and fibre volume percentage on the mechanical properties of snake grass fibre. Based on the test results, the composite with a 15 mm fibre length and a volume percentage of 20% SG fiber has better mechanical qualities. Finally, mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties are used to assess the impact of Aegle marmelos with Epoxy blended hybrid matrix addition into the snake grass fibre composite. The inclusion of natural fiber with epoxy matrix and natural (Aegle marmelos) filler increased composite characteristics due to their synergistic effect. This enhances the adhesion and stress transmission uniformity between the reinforcements. The morphology of the fiber surface is assessed using micrographs acquired with a scanning electron microscope.

Bioinspired self-flowing wood chemical treatment

Wood has complex composition and structure, which make it difficult to achieve consistent and controllable treatment. A self-flowing process presented for the chemical treatment of wood is inspired by liquid transportation in trees during photosynthesis and tree growth, whereby liquid in the soil is brought through the natural vessels and/or fiber tracheids. In this process, wood lumbers are placed in a tank containing treatment chemicals such as preservatives, fire retardants, or reactive agents. Through an absorbent sheet bridging the untreated lumber to an overflow tank, the chemicals are drawn into the lumber under capillary force and pressure difference, so that continuous treatment occurs inside the wood. Effectiveness of the self-flowing process is evaluated and compared to conventional immersion and vacuum wood treatment methods. The self-flowing method is very effective for wood delignification, which is six and four times more effective than that from immersion and vacuum pressure treatment methods, respectively. The self-flowing process allows a more uniform wood treatment compared to that from the immersion and vacuum pressure methods. A mathematical model was developed to describe the self-flowing process. This model can accurately predict the treatment time required for achieving desired results under various conditions.

Simulation and Test of Key Decorticating Components of Spiral Ramie Decorticator

Ramie is a valuable natural fiber resource. The fabric made of ramie fiber has distinctive natural characteristics, and its products are widely favored in the international market. Because the cellulose fiber in ramie is closely adhered by a viscous material composed of pectin, hemicellulose, and lignin, mechanical stripping and processing is needed to obtain primary ramie fiber for downstream use. To address the production challenges posed by high labor intensity and the scarcity of small, direct-feeding ramie decorticators in hilly and mountainous regions, this study designed and optimized a spiral ramie decortication component that integrated functions of ramie stalk crushing, xylem removal, outer shell scraping, and phloem separating and throwing. The three-dimensional model of the ramie stripping component was crafted with SolidWorks software, and subsequent modal analysis and dynamic simulation studies were conducted using Abaqus software. The Box–Behnken experimental design method was used to construct a mathematical model describing the effects of the decorticating drum rotation speed and the decorticating gap on the fiber percentage of fresh stalk, and the optimal operating parameters were determined accordingly. The research findings indicated that the component’s initial ten natural frequencies span from 234.41 to 431.70 Hz, which do not overlap with the external excitation frequencies, thus ensuring that no resonance phenomenon occurs during the operation process, meeting the design requirements for the ramie decortication operation. Under dynamic load conditions, the ramie decorticator can efficiently perform the task of ramie fiber decortication, and the stress and strain experienced by the device meet the established design specifications; by optimizing operating parameters, the optimal operating conditions were determined to be the speed of feeding and crushing parts (SFCP) of 100 r/min, the speed of separating and throwing parts (SSTP) of 400 r/min, the gap of feeding and crushing parts (GFCP) of 8 mm, and the gap of separating and throwing parts (GSTP) of 0 mm. Experimental results indicated that under this optimal parameter combination, the fiber percentage of fresh stalk of the spiral ramie decorticator can reach 5.03%, with a relative error of less than 3% compared to the theoretical model prediction value, thus confirming the accuracy of the model prediction. This study establishes a robust technical basis for the development of a convenient decortication technology for ramie fibers. However, this technique is more suitable for small growers, especially in hilly areas, to achieve large-scale applications, schemes must be reevaluated based on production efficiency.

The Characterization and Development of Kenaf and Graphene Nanoplatelets in Polylactic Acid Composites

Kenaf fiber is in high demand due to the need for lightweight composites, particularly in the automobile industry and occasionally for interior building materials. Its remarkable strength and low density are the main causes of this. The use of natural fiber as a bio-composite material is limited because it is less heat resistant compared to synthetic fiber. To bolster the mechanical robustness of kenaf composites, graphene nanoplatelets (GnP) are incorporated as a supplementary reinforcing agent. Numerous studies have explored the mechanical properties of composites made from natural fibers and polymer matrices, with the recent market introduction of polylactic acid (PLA) polymers as biodegradable matrix options for biocomposites. The objective of this study is to determine the effects of incorporating graphene fillers on the tensile and flexural properties of PLA, kenaf, GnP composites. Hot pressing compression moulding is employed to fabricate the composite samples consisting of varying compositions, ranging from 95% PLA, 5% kenaf, and 0% GnP to 80% PLA, 15% kenaf, and 5% GnP. The result shows that adding 5% Graphene Nanoplatelets as a reinforcing filler will enhance the tensile strength and tensile modulus up to 18.2% and 53.2% respectively. While the flexural strength and flexural modulus enhanced up to 46.1% and 53.2% respectively. Besides that, DSC analysis shows that adding GnT does not alter the thermal properties of the composite with a melting point of 161.5 ℃. Overall, the results confirm that the addition of graphene improves the mechanical properties of the composites. It is suggested that further research should investigate the optimal ratio of GnP, kenaf, and PLA composition in order to achieve the optimum mechanical properties so that this composite has the potential to be used in various applications.

Machine learning approaches to natural fiber composites: A review of methodologies and applications

In recent years, the process of optimizing the design of natural fiber reinforcement in natural fiber composites (NFCs) with distinct properties has been redefined through the application of machine learning (ML). This work elucidates the functions of the types and applications of the ML algorithms and evolutionary computing techniques, with a particular focus on their applicability within the domain of NFCs. Moreover, the solution methodologies and associated databases were employed throughout various stages of the product development journey, from the raw material selection through the final end-use application for the NFCs. The strengths and limitations of the ML in the NFCs industry, together with relevant challenges, such as interpretability of ML models, in materials science was detailed. Finally, future directions and emerging trends in the ML are discussed.

Preparation and Applications of Multifunctional MXene/Tussah Silk Fabric.

The development of functional textiles has become a key focus in recent years, aiming to meet the diverse requirements of modern society. MXene has excellent conductivity, hydrophilicity, and UV resistance, and is widely used in electromagnetic shielding, sensors, energy storage, and photothermal conversion. Tussah silk (TS) is a unique natural textile raw material and has a unique jewelry luster, natural luxury, and a smooth and comfortable feel. However, there are relatively few studies on the functional finishing of TS fabric with Ti3C2Tx MXene. Here, we developed a multifunctional MXene/tussah silk (MXene/TS) fabric by the deposition of Ti3C2Tx MXene sheets on the surface of TS fabric through a simple padding-drying-curing process. The obtained MXene/TS fabric (five cycles) exhibited excellent conductivity (4.8 S/m), air permeability (313.6 mm/s), ultraviolet resistance (ultraviolet protection factor, UPF = 186.3), photothermal conversion (temperature increase of 11 °C), and strain sensing. Thanks to these superior properties, the MXene/TS fabric has broad application prospects in motion monitoring, smart clothing, flexible wearables, and artificial intelligence.

ECOLOGICAL INNOVATION: THERMOSETTING RESINS AND WATER HYACINTH FIBER IN HIGH-PERFORMANCE BIO-COMPOSITE MATERIALS FOR SUSTAINABLE WASTE MANAGEMENT

<p style="text-align:justify; margin-bottom:11px"><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="line-height:200%"><span style="font-family:Calibri,"sans-serif""><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:12.0pt"><span style="line-height:200%"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Fibrous plants are renewable resources that are abundant in nature. Economically and ecologically, it is especially advantageous to create high-performance composites using inexpensive natural fibres like water hyacinth (Eichhornea crassipes). As a composite matrix, remarkable thermosetting resins like polyester are frequently utilized because polymer composites have excellent dimensional stability, thermal stability, and mechanical qualities. For this investigation, hot curing and solution impregnation procedures were used to create several composites from water hyacinth fibre and polymer. This study's objective is to ascertain how the textures alter when PVC and bio composite components are included. This research is being done to find out what changes polymer materials with fiber-reinforced nanoparticles make. This study uses the water hyacinth (Eichornia crassipers) as a bio-composite material. This type of water hyacinth is usually only seen when the rivers are overflowing. The crystallinity index of water hyacinth fibre composite is 54.82%. The outside of the hyacinth composite is examined under a transmission electron microscope. Hyacinth fibre composite heat degradation is measured using the thermo gravimetric research technique. Additionally the result of this study is to find mechanical, chemical resistance, and morphological properties.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

Antimicrobial hydrogel scaffolds from Barba de Viejo microfibers, alginate and ag nanoparticles via green synthesis

Natural fibers are being employed in the development of the next generation of biomaterials, due to their reduced environmental impact and the ease of their functionalization with natural polymers. In this study, Barba del Viejo fibers were treated with NaOH and bonded with alginate through ionic gelation by using CaCℓ2, which facilitates ionic interactions between alginate and Ca2+. Additionally, antimicrobial Barba del Viejo/alginate/silver nanoparticles(BVA/Ago) scaffolds were developed from the NaOH-treated BV-microfibers, silver salt and sodium alginate, with mint leaves extract as a nucleating agent. The functional and crystalline structure of microfibers and the hydrogels developed were analyzed using the FTIR and XRD. SEM explained that the diameter of the NaOH-treated microfibers was ⁓1.32 μm. The morphological images of the hydrogels, confirm the functionalization of alginate with microfibers and the formation of Ago nanoparticles within the hydrogels network. The swelling ratio of the hydrogels increased with alginate functionalization on BV-microfibers, improving NaOH treatment, but decreased the degradation rate. UV-spectra showed absorption peaks in the wavelength range of between 432 and 442 nm, confirming the surface plasmon resonance effect of the Ago nanoparticles within the scaffolds. TEM analysis confirms that the Ago nanoparticles in hydrogels were spherical in shape, with sizes ranging from ⁓2 and 10 nm. The zeta potential analysis indicates that the Ago nanoparticles possess negative charges, providing a stable surface that helps to prevent aggregation and, therefore, demonstrating a homogeneous distribution throughout all the BVA/Ago scaffolds prepared. The antimicrobial studies reveal that the BVA/Ago scaffolds exhibit significant antibacterial activity against E.coli and S.aureus bacteria. Further investigations are affirmed to study the potential applications of these scaffolds in infection-control wound dressing.

Cellulose extraction from red sage fiber, Prosopis Juliflora fiber, vegetable waste filler: Applications in PLA based bio composites

In this research, two natural fibers Red Sage Fiber (RSF) and Prosopis Juliflora Fiber (PJF) were extracted using water retting process and chemically treated for improving the properties. It was found with significant improvement in cellulose content for both RSF (60.75 %) and PJF (56.62 %) by NaOH treatment at 2 wt%. The surface treatment in natural fibers improved the tensile strength (TS) of RSF (133.4–161.8 MPa) and PJF (149.9–182.3 MPa). The Crystallinity index (Crl), Crystallite size (CrS) of 74.8 %, 4.3 nm was observed in vegetable waste filler (VWF) after acid and alkali treatments. The high concentration of fiber treatment (6 wt%) could create high porosity in the structure with surface deformations, decreasing the TS of PLA composites. The PJF up to 15 wt% increased the TS of composites from 50.24 to 51.71 MPa. All the combinations with PLA observed better TS than neat PLA. The incorporation of RSF (5–15 wt%) enhances the flexural strength (FS) (75.95–78 MPa). It was clearly observed significant reduction in water absorption property of PLA composites with increase in contact angle from 62° to 84° with treated filler.