Extraction and characterization of Dypsis lutescens peduncle fiber: agro-waste to probable reinforcement in biocomposites-a sustainable approach

To include sustainability into their products, composite industries use natural resources as raw materials. This study explores the isolation and characterization of novel Dypsis lutescens peduncle fiber (DLPF) extracted from the peduncle of Dypsis lutescens an agro-waste. The thermo-mechanical and chemical characteristics of DLPF were comparable to other eco-friendly fibers utilized as firming material in polymer composites. Towards favoring the composite industry in deciding the use of DLPF as firming material in polymer composite cellulose composition (51.11 wt%), least wax (0.31 wt%), minimum density (1.35 g/cm(3)), greater crystallinity index (49%), tensile strength (122-198 MPa), and Young's modulus (2.3-5.8 GPa) were assessed. The thermogravimetric (TGA-DTG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis revealed the thermal stability (224 degree celsius), endothermic, and exothermic characteristics of DLPF with increase in temperature correspondingly. The prevalence of key operational clusters in the DLPF was recognized through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectrum. The exterior texture of DLPF was captured through scanning electron microscope (SEM) to understand the interference characteristics of the DLPF with matrix when utilized as firming material in polymer composites. The assessed mechanical features, thermal characteristics, and chemical nature of DLPF give scope that it can be employed as a firming material in polymer composites employed in lesser weight structures.