Extraction and characterization of novel cellulosic fiber from Jatropha integerrima plant stem for potential reinforcement in polymer composites

The present work attempts to discover the alternative for the synthetic fibers due to increased demand of environment-friendly materials. In order to accomplish this, a detailed characterization of novel fibers extracted from the Jatropha integerrima plant stems was conducted. In order to check the fiber reinforcement potentials, various properties such as chemical composition, tensile testing, water absorption, thermal stability, fiber roughness, and morphology were evaluated. The characterization results revealed important properties of Jatropha integerrima fiber (JIF). The fiber composition analysis indicated a cellulose content of 75.3 +/- 2.4%, hemicellulose content of 7.84 +/- 0.4%, and lignin content of 7.63 +/- 0.2%. This composition provides insights into the fiber's chemical makeup and its potential for various applications. The crystallinity index (CI) of JIF was determined to be 57.14%, indicating a well-defined crystalline structure. This crystallinity is important for understanding the fiber's properties and its behavior in composite materials. The fiber also demonstrated excellent thermal stability, as evidenced by its ability to endure temperatures up to 395 C-degrees based on thermogravimetric experiments. This high-temperature resistance makes JIF suitable for applications where heat resistance is crucial. The functional groups present in the fiber were identified using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), providing further information about its chemical characteristics. The tensile strength of JIF was found to be 326.7 +/- 6.9 MPa, with a strain rate of 2.6 +/- 0.2%, highlighting its mechanical properties and potential as a reinforcement material. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis revealed significant surface roughness, which can have implications for fiber-matrix interactions and the bonding in composite materials. Overall, these characterization results provide a comprehensive understanding of JIF's composition, crystallinity, thermal stability, mechanical properties, and surface morphology. The practical applications of JIF extend to a wide range of industries, including construction, automotive, aerospace, and packaging.