Utilization of discarded Cymbopogon flexuosus root waste as a novel lignocellulosic fiber for lightweight polymer composite application

The viability of using cellulosic Cymbopogon flexuosus root (CFR) fiber waste from the industry as a reinforcing material in a polyester-reinforced composite was investigated. Initially, CFR anatomy, mechanical, thermal, physio-chemical, morphological, and spectroscopy behaviors were investigated. Spectroscopy and chemical analysis were evidence for the richness of cellulose content (74.33%) in the fiber which reflected in increased tensile strength of 315.22 +/- 61.72 MPa and thermal stability 272.31 degrees C. Fiber reinforcement was varied from 0 to 50 wt% at random orientation and mechanical, and water absorption properties were correlated with the glass fiber reinforced composite of the same weight percentage. The composite with a 40% fiber combination has an enhancement in mechanical, morphological, and thermal characterization. This comprehensive study confirms the usage of this bio-material in replacing harmful synthetic material in structural, marine and mechanical industrial applications.