Showing papers in "Journal of Natural Fibers in 2022"

Sea Sand Abrasive Wear of Red Mud Micro Particle Reinforced Cissus quadrangularis Stem fiber/epoxy Composite

Abstract: ABSTRACT Natural fibers are growing attention in the replacement of synthetic glass fiber due to their unique properties. The present work focuses on the wear properties of Epoxy with Cissus quadrangularis Stem Fiber (CQSF) particulate-filled red mud composite using Taguchi L9 orthogonal array technique. A three-body wear test rig is done with four input parameters and three levels such as velocities (0.75 m/s, 1.5 m/s and 2.25 m/s), sliding distances (400 m, 600 m and 800 m), applied loads (10 N, 20 N and 30 N) and red mud filler (0%, 5% and 10%) to observe the wear behavior of the developed composites. The level of impact on specific wear rate due to various input parameters such as velocity, distance, load and filler was computed. The hardness of the samples was increased by 10.7% for 5 wt.% red mud addition and 14.2% for 10 wt.% of red mud addition. The overall mean for the signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio of the specific wear rate of the specimen was found to be 34.62 dB, respectively. Finally, the experimental result and predicted theoretical result were validated after taking the conformation experiment. The wear mechanism of the composite materials after the abrasive wear test was substantiated using scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis.

Comparative study for efficacy of chemically treated jute fiber and bamboo fiber on the properties of reinforced concrete beams

Abstract: ABSTRACT Synthetic fibers are normally used as reinforcing material to strengthen the concrete. Natural fibers have been considered as the most sustainable alternative for synthetic fibers in both cost and sustainability point of view. In this study, mechanical characteristics of pre-treated bamboo and jute fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) composites have been evaluated. The performance of treated natural fibers in the enhancement of strength of concrete has been examined. Fibers were added in the percentage proportions of 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5 by the weight of cement in the concrete matrix. The compressive and flexural strength of fiber-reinforced concrete has been experimentally verified. The test results show that maximum compressive strength was obtained as 26.4 MPa and 26.1 MPa for concrete with 1.5% bamboo and 2% jute fibers, respectively, at 28 days of curing. Similarly, maximum flexural strength was obtained as 6.36 MPa and 6.1 MPa for concrete with 1.5% bamboo and 2% jute fibers, respectively, at 28 days of curing. Based on the maximum compressive strength and flexural strength, optimum dosage of treated bamboo and jute fiber has been identified as 1.5% and 2%, respectively. SEM analysis reveals that there is a good bonding between fibers and concrete matrix, and breaking of fibers is due to pulling load and debonding.

Influence of Vachellia nilotica Subsp. indica Tree Trunk Bark Nano-powder on Properties of Milkweed Plant Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composites

Abstract: ABSTRACT The high-strength materials fabricated from biodegradable resources are in demand due to their renewable nature, lightweight, and environmental friendliness. The current experimental investigation aims to examine the influence of Vachellia nilotica subsp. indica tree trunk bark nano-powder on properties of milkweed fiber-reinforced polymer composites (MFPCs). The composites were prepared by compression molding method, and the properties such as mechanical strength and water absorption behavior were analyzed; differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation were also carried out. Results revealed that the inclusion of V. indica tree trunk nano-powder had a considerable effect on the properties of MFPCs, and it could act as an impending nano-filler for the polymer matrix composites.

Bio-composite film from corn starch based vetiver cellulose

Abstract: ABSTRACT Bio-composites have lately established wide applicability in various industrial sectors such as automobile, construction, packaging, and coatings. Due to their global abundance, natural fibers and starch have been one of the most tested raw materials to be utilized as bio-composite reinforcements. This investigation aims to fabricate corn starch (CS) reinforced vetiver cellulose fibers (VCF) composites using the solution casting method. For the VCF reinforcement, alpha (α)-cellulose was synthesized from the vetiver roots and post-converted into nano-cellulose using the ball milling technique. Various compositions comprising 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20% (by weight) of this α-cellulose were inserted as reinforcement to commercially available CS matrix. The fabricated composite specimens were put to tensile, water absorption capacity, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and contact angle determination tests to evaluate the film properties. Crystallinity and failure morphology analysis of the composites was captured using the X-Ray Diffraction and scanning electron microscopy techniques, respectively. Results reveal that the incorporation of VCF in the CS matrix domain enhances the mechanical properties of bio-composites. Furthermore, the water absorption capacity decreased, and the contact angle increased; thereby predicting the composite’s potential application as a lightweight food packaging material.

Systematic Review on Reinforcing Mortars with Natural Fibers: Challenges of Environment-Friendly Option

Abstract: ABSTRACT In recent years, research has been carried out to examine natural fibers reinforced construction mortars (NFRM), which are now increasingly replacing synthetic fibers reinforced mortars, with a view to producing construction materials that not only limit environmental impacts but also improve their mechanical properties and thermal insulation characteristics. This article reports on research conducted using natural fibers for mortar reinforcement, through a systematic review of publications, based on a bibliometric analysis extracted from the Web of Sciences (WOS) and Scopus databases. In addition, analysis of the treatment of natural fibers used in the mortar reinforcement is also presented. In this context, the analysis of physical and thermal resistance parameters reveals a considerable increase in annual publications on this research topic while the literature using treated fibers represents nearly 12% of the NFRMs literature. Moreover, the results indicate the fiber treatment improves adhesion in the mortar matrix systems of composite materials obtained. It causes their capacity for water absorption to increase and their thermal conductivity to decrease, thus contributing to heat absorption and, above all, to their durability. It is desirable that this bibliometric analysis is susceptible to inform researchers in order to conduct further research to advance this field.

Extraction and Characterization of a New Lignocellulosic Fiber from <i>Yucca Treculeana L</i>. Leaf as Potential Reinforcement for Industrial Biocomposites

Abstract: The need to preserve nature has led researchers to explore new natural fibers for biodegradable biocomposites. Present work explored first time the thermo-physico-chemical, morphological, and mechanical properties of Yucca treculeana (YT) fiber with a density of 1.330 ± 0.039 g/cm3. The estimated chemical analysis of YT fiber is 82.3%, 12.1%, and 5.6% for cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, respectively. The surface chemistry, crystallinity, and functional groups of YT fibers were analyzed by XPS, XRD, and FTIR, respectively. The concentration levels of carbon (62.88%) and oxygen (33.72%) were detected by XPS. XRD analysis showed that the YT fiber has a crystallite size of 3.02 nm and a crystallinity index of 48.85%. Based on the thermal analysis by TGA, the results show thermal stability of the YT fiber up to 360.6°C. The average mechanical properties of the fiber are 222 MPa for the tensile strength, 2.47% for the strain at break and the Young’s modulus is equal to 16.85 GPa. In addition, the results obtained in this study were compared with those found in the related literature. All these results prove that YT fiber can be used as reinforcement in making lightweight industrial biocomposites with thermoplastic or thermosetting polymers.

Physico-Chemical and Mechanical Characterization of Triumfetta Pentandra Bast Fiber from the Equatorial Region of Cameroon as a Potential Reinforcement of Polymer Composites

Abstract: ABSTRACT This study aims at characterizing Triumfetta Pentandra (TP) bast fibers from the equatorial region of Cameroon and evaluating its potential as a strengthening agent in a polymer matrix. The fibers were extracted from the bark of the plant by water retting method and subjected to phytochemical, morphological, thermal, and mechanical characterization. Phytochemical analysis revealed that the fibers were made up of several elementary fibers cross the whole section, which were composed of celluloses (61.10%), hemicelluloses (14.30%), lignins (17.73%), pectins (5.65%), and other extracts (0.86%). A fiber density of 0.351 g/cm3, was recorded which was relatively small compared to other plant fibers. They are hydrophilic with a water absorption of 183.31%, which corresponds to the presence of free hydroxyl functions as confirmed from the spectrometry study (FTIR). Also, the fibers exhibit significant thermal stability up to 220°C with a peak thermal decomposition of cellulose located at 380°C. A crystallinity index of 28.84% was obtained. Finally, mechanical studies indicated; a tensile Young’s modulus of 1.85 GPa, tensile strength of 1503.57 MPa and an elongation at break of 8%. These results show that Triumfetta Pentandra fibers are very suitable for reinforcing polymer matrix composite materials.

Sustainable Application of Microwave Assisted Extracted Tea Based Tannin Natural Dye for Chemical and Bio-Mordanted Wool Fabric

Abstract: ABSTRACT Environmental issues are rising day by day in the global community due to the cumulative effects of hazardous effluent load and due to the introduction of biological active natural products into all aspects of life. In this study, the waste tea-leaves-based tannin natural dye has been extracted under the influence of microwave treatment and employed onto bio-mordanted wool fabric. For extraction of dye, microwave (MW) irradiation up to 6 min has been employed and for improvement in color strength, bio-mordants in comparison with chemicals mordants. It has been found that acidic extract of tea leaves after MW treatment for 6 min has given excellent color depth (K/S) on MW treated wool at 80°C. Using bio-mordants, it has been found that 4% of acacia extract, 1% of pomegranate extract and 5% of turmeric extract as pre bio-mordant, whereas 5% of acacia and 2% of pomegranate and turmeric as post bio-mordants have given excellent color strength, whereas in comparison, ferrous sulfate (2%) has given excellent results. It has been concluded that microwave treatment as an environmentally sustainable tool has not only improved the color strength of tannins dye onto wool fabric but also with the addition of bio-mordants has made the process more sustainable.

High-Efficiency and Durable Flame Retardant Cotton Fabric with Good Physical and Mechanical Properties by Layer-by-Layer Assembly Polyethylenimine/Phytic Acid Coating

Abstract: ABSTRACT In this study, intumescent flame retardant coating of polyethylenimine/phytic acid (PEI/PA) with gradient structure was constructed on cotton fabric through a facile layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly method. The LOI value of coated cotton fabric reached over 40%, indicating excellent flame retardancy. Reasonable controlling the LBL assembly process of PEI/PA coating brought less influence to the physical properties of cotton fabrics. And the coated cotton fabric revealed good flame retardant washing durability. Thermogravimetric analysis results of coated cotton fabrics showed that PEI/PA flame retardant coating changed the thermal decomposition process and promoted char formation revealing the obviously condensed phase flame retardant action. SEM images of char residues revealed that PEI/PA flame retardant coating promoted to form the intumescent flame retardant (IFR) char layer showing obvious IFR action. This research provides novel strategy for the development of high-efficiency flame retardant cotton fabric with good durability and physical properties using a simple LBL assembly method.

A Novel Flexible Green Composite with Sisal and Natural Rubber: Investigation under Low-Velocity Impact

Abstract: ABSTRACT The present work concentrates on assessing the low-velocity impact (LVI) response of sisal-natural rubber (NR)-based flexible green composite in two different stacking sequences, namely, sisal/rubber/sisal (SRS) and sisal/rubber/sisal/rubber/sisal (SRSRS). The influence of the impactor shape on LVI response of the proposed composite was assessed using hemispherical and conical-shaped impactors. Results showed that the proposed composites exhibit better energy absorption and resistance to damage due to inclusion of compliant matrix. The study of damage mechanism of the proposed composites showed that the inclusion of NR as a matrix material in the proposed composites helps to avoid catastrophic failure since rubber undergoes failure by matrix tearing as opposed to matrix cracking as in the case of stiff composites. The proposed composites eliminate two of the major damage mechanisms, namely, matrix cracking and delamination, due to usage of compliant matrix material. The results obtained suggest that the proposed flexible composites can serve as excellent sacrificial structures. The outcome of the present study serves as a benchmark for interested designers/engineers to explore the usage of natural material candidates for developing sustainable impact-resistant composites.

Pythagorean Fuzzy Sets Combined with the PROMETHEE Method for the Selection of Cotton Woven Fabric

Abstract: ABSTRACT Identifying and selecting the best cotton fabric from a series of available samples is a challenging multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) problem that includes fuzziness and uncertainty. Pythagorean fuzzy sets (PFSs) are widely used to manage complex and uncertain MCDM issues. The Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment of Evaluation (PROMETHEE) is a widely used classical MCDM to assess and rank alternatives. In this study, we use the PROMETHEE approach to solve a real case of ranking cotton fabrics in a PFS environment, where alternatives are compared based on the PFS linguistic scales, and a score function is used as a defuzzification function. A comparative analysis is also performed with different score functions. The ranking results of the proposed PF-PROMETHEE method correlate strongly with other score functions, which indicates that the PF-PROMETHEE method is feasible and effective. The salient contributions of the PF-PROMETHEE method are as follows: (1) the method can manage uncertainty better than other methods; (2) uncertainty is evaluated by linguistic scales in the PF environment; (3) the method can effectively select cotton woven fabric; and (4) the method is applicable to a wide variety of MCDM problems in the textile industry.

Banana Fiber Degumming by Alkali Treatment and Ultrasonic Methods

Abstract: ABSTRACT This study focused on reducing the burden of air pollution, wastage of banana pseudostems, and adding value to the plant’s products. Alkali pre-treatment and ultrasounds aided in degumming banana fiber to remove wax, lignin, hemicellulose, and other unwanted extractives. The chemical analysis method revealed 72.78% cellulosic content in ultra-sonicated fiber. Ultra-sonication attained an average diameter of 19.36 μm compared to 49.94 μm of alkali pre-treated fiber and 171.87 μm of untreated fiber as observed through the digital optical microscope. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed well-separated fibrils of ultra-sonicated fiber. X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) showed de-convoluted peaks of C1s, O1s, and N1s that confirmed lignin removal. Transform Infra-Red (ATR-FTIR) Spectrometer revealed varnishing peak bands of C − O and C═O functional groups between 1600 cm−1 and 1733 cm−1 related to lignin and hemicelluloses. The X-ray Diffractometer (XRD) showed improved crystallinity up to 63.29%. The single fiber strength testing machine showed optimized breaking strength of 31.12cN/dtex and breakage elongation of 9.38%. The chemical, mechanical and morphological properties showed great promise for high-quality banana fibers.

Tensile Behavior and Statistical Analysis of <i>Washingtonia Filifera</i> Fibers as Potential Reinforcement for Industrial Polymer Biocomposites

Abstract: Natural fibers continue to attract the attention of researchers because of their use in reinforced polymer composites. They allow industrial designers to find solutions to aging infrastructure problems more than 50 years after their use in aerospace, automotive, construction, consumer products, etc. These fibers are economical and low density. In fact, in addition to their specific properties, such as non-abrasiveness and biodegradability, they are an ecological material with low environmental impact. Washingtonia Filifera (WF) fiber, among others, is attracting more and more researchers to replace certain fibers such as synthetic or glass fibers, being widely used in the world. This study aims to determine the mechanical parameters of WF fibers with a gauge length (GL = 50 mm) in quasi-static tension. Tensile tests were carried out on 150 fibers in five-test series to determine the influence of their variability on the tensile stress, strain at break and Young’s modulus of plant fibers. Due to the dispersion of the results of the mechanical tensile properties of WF fibers, which is a characteristic of natural fibers, a statistical study is necessary. Thus, statistical tools such as the two and three-parameter Weibull distribution at 95% confidence level (CI) and the one-way analysis of variance ANOVA were carried out to study this dispersion.

Physical and Mechanical Properties of Pinecone Scale Fiber/Vigna Mungo Powder Reinforced Polypropylene Based Hybrid Composites

Abstract: ABSTRACT This study accounted for fabrication, physico-mechanical, and morphological properties of extracted pine cone scale fiber (natural fiber) and vigna mungo powder (natural filler) reinforced polypropylene composite using the compression molding technique. The behavior of hybrid composites was examined through tensile, flexural, hardness, impact, and SEM characterizations. Compared to the neat polymer matrix, the mechanical properties of the hybrid composites improved. The flexural and hardness properties where significantly enhanced with the addition of Vigna mungo powder. The hybrid composite C2 (30% pine cone scale fiber reinforcement) showed the highest density tensile and impact strength. The composite C5 (30% vigna mungo powder reinforcement) showed the least density, lowest impact, and high flexural strength. This was attributed to the chemical treatment of the fibers, which improved the fibers’ tensile properties due to the removal of the wax layer from fiber surface. The study concluded that naturally occurring pine cone scale fiber and vigna mungo powder could be used as potential reinforcements and can be a viable alternative material for polymer-based composites.

Effect of Alkaline Treatment and Graphene Oxide Coating on Thermal and Chemical Properties of Hemp (Cannabis Sativa L.) Fibers

Abstract: ABSTRACT The constant concern about environmental issues has led to the growth of researches about eco-friendly materials. Among them, the natural lignocellulosic fibers have already presented their potential in place of petroleum-based synthetics. However, a relevant number of studies still have to deal with their disadvantages, such as the weak bond on the matrices for a composite performance and limited thermal performance. Thus, the present study analyzes a combination of alkaline treatment and graphene oxide coating in hemp fibers, an NLF applied in several products but with few investigations in engineering applications. The hemp fibers were thermally characterized with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The GO-coating was evidenced by the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. Changes in crystallinity were presented by X-ray diffraction (XRD). It was observed an increase of about 4% to 11% of the crystallinity after the alkaline treatment. The thermal stability rose about 13°C in the 10 wt% NaOH-treated and GO-coated fibers, and a change of about 3.5°C was detected for the glass transition temperature. The GO-coating effect was also evidenced by changes in Raman spectra and FTIR curves and was visually detected in the scanning electron microscope (SEM).

A Review on Chicken Feather Fiber (CFF) and its application in Composites

Abstract: ABSTRACT The technological breakthrough in the field of natural composites has led to the introduction of many new materials and products, which are environmentally friendly. As a result, there is a need to reuse, recycle, and reduce the increasing solid bio-waste. Researchers are focusing on deriving reinforcements for composites from biomaterials. This review focuses on the mechanical, physical, chemical, and thermal characterization of CFF as reported in various research articles. This work also presents CFF as a reinforcement material in composites and methods for preparing the CFF composites. This review indicates that CFF provides enough scope to explore opportunities for future research of CFF as a biomaterial in composites.

Physico-Chemical Properties of Alkali Treated Cellulosic Fibers from Fragrant Screw Pine Prop Root

Abstract: ABSTRACT The purpose of this study is to characterize alkali-treated fibers from the prop root of fragrant screw pine (FSP) plant in order to determine their suitability as a substitute for man-made fiber in preparation of lightweight bio-based composite materials. The physical, chemical, mechanical, morphological, and thermal properties of alkali-treated FSP fibers (AFSPF) were reported and compared to those of other natural fibers used as reinforcement in polymer composites. Cellulose content (80.53 wt.%), wax content (0.21 wt.%), density (1.41 g/cm3), tensile strength (619–1038 MPa), and young’s modulus (23–41 GPa) of AFSPF were determined. Thermal analysis (TGA and DTG) confirms the thermal stability of these fibers up to 257°C. The characterized properties demonstrate that AFSPF can be used as reinforcement in the preparation of polymer-based bio-composites for applications requiring low weight and high specific strength that meet technical and environmental requirements.

Comprehensive Characterization of New Natural Fiber Extracted from the Stem of Grewia flavescens Plant

Abstract: ABSTRACT The physical, chemical, mechanical, thermal, and morphological characteristics of Grewia flavescens are reported in this article. The G. Flavescens fiber is found to have a satisfactory cellulose content and can be useful for lightweight applications due to its lower density. The fiber was analyzed using X-Ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopic test, and atomic force microscopy. While XRD analysis confirms a comparable crystallinity index for this natural fiber, the thermal characteristics confirm the fiber’s stability behavior when subjected to temperatures up to 165°C. Results of the morphological study of the fiber with a rough surface suggest its suitability for use in making composites. The comparatively less amount of wax and moisture content observed are again advantageous as the fiber bonding with the matrix will be improved in the composites. It is recommended that the present G. flavescens fiber can be efficiently utilized for making biocomposites.

Evaluation of Physical, Mechanical, and Wear Properties of Jatropha Shell Powder Reinforced Epoxy Glass Fiber Composites

Abstract: ABSTRACT Jatropha residue (shells and de-oiled cake) is a waste product from the oil processing industries and is toxic. Jatropha shell powder (JSP) was used as filler to fabricate an epoxy glass fiber hybrid composite material. The effect of different wt.% (10, 15 and 20%) and Jatropha shell powder sizes (150, 150–250, and 250–300 µm) on physical-mechanical characteristics of hybrid composites were studied. It was discovered that the tensile strength of the hybrid composite (79.6 MPa) improved significantly with 15 wt % JSP loading of size 150–250 µm as compared to epoxy glass fiber composite (35.7 MPa). The hybrid composite specific wear rate (0.079 mm3/Nm) reduced significantly (89%) as compared to the glass fiber composite material. The impact strength of the hybrid composite material is increased by 4 times of simple composite. The SEM images revealed that the fibers pull out from the lamina due to a lack of interfacial bonding between glass fiber, epoxy, and JSP. Additionally, the TOPSIS method was used to predict the best hybrid composite material using the experimental results. It can be concluded that JSP powder can be used for epoxy glass fiber composite, which would reduce environmental pollution by increasing the green building resource base.

Development of Sustainable Jute/Epoxy Composite and Assessing the Effect of Rubber Crumb on Low Velocity Impact Response

Abstract: ABSTRACT In the current study, the experimental assessment of influence of rubber crumb on the low velocity impact (LVI) behavior of jute epoxy composites are carried out using two types of impactors namely hemispherical and conical. Hand layup technique is used to fabricate the proposed composites. The rubber crumb is incorporated in the epoxy resin with 1.5 wt%, 3 wt%, and 5 wt%. Results revealed that incorporation of 3 wt% of rubber crumb resulted in better LVI response compared to its counterparts. Fractography studies revealed that inclusion of rubber crumb particles enhances the adhesion between resin and fiber, thereby increasing the energy absorption. In addition, they aid in reducing damage area and increasing penetration threshold of proposed composites. The current study’s systematic technique serves as a model for the efficient use and conversion of waste rubber crumb into usable natural fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites for LVI applications.

Moisture Absorption of cork-based Biosandwich Material Extracted from Quercussuber L. Plant: ANN and Fick’s Modelling

Abstract: ABSTRACT The building sector is one of the most dynamic in terms of energy consumption, consuming about 40% of the world’s energy. This same sector is also responsible for about 1/3 of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. In recent years, the adoption of composite materials, particularly those strengthened through the use of natural fibers is growing in all areas. This increase is the direct result of the important performances offered by these materials and that includes lightness, thermal, and acoustic insulation along with respect for the environment. This led to the integration of materials, such as bio composites or bio sandwiches, into various building structures constructions relating to civil engineering. However, numerous researches related to bio composites showed the need to explore them further particularly concerning the issue of moisture absorption as the presence of water affects the behavior of plant fibers both in terms of swelling and degradation. It is within this context that the present study focuses on modeling the water absorption behavior of bio sandwich materials having an agglomerated cork core associated with fibers extracted from the plant Quercussuber L. Fick’s law and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) are applied to model the experimental results pertaining to this absorption behavior. The experimental investigation starts by placing the original samples in tank filled with distilled water at an ambient temperature of 25°C. Mass samples are later and periodically taken on specimen with cork core having different thicknesses (5, 10, and 20 mm) as well as on laminated skin sandwiches made of short flax fibers until saturation that lasted around 25 days. The two Fick’s diffusion characteristic parameters represented by the mass gain at saturation (Mm ) and the diffusion coefficient (D) were determined analytically and water absorption kinetics behavior was recorded and later compared to the curves predicted by Fick’s laws. Statistical processing of the results was carried out through the application of the analysis of variance ANOVA.

Utilization of Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Fly Ash for Non-Bearing Masonry Units Containing Coconut Fiber

Abstract: ABSTRACT This research investigated the properties of coconut fiber (CF) reinforced lateritic soil (LS) mixed with municipal solid waste incineration fly ash (MSWI FA) based geopolymer as a green construction material. The MSWI FA was a by-product of the municipal solid waste burning process to generate electricity. The influence factors studied included LS/MSWI FA ratio, CF content, sodium silicate (Na2SiO3)/sodium hydroxide (NaOH) ratio, and NaOH concentration. The unconfined compressive strength (UCS), flexural strength (FS), and microstructure analysis were evaluated. The maximum dry unit weight of specimens increased as the LS/MSWI FA ratio and NaOH concentration increased due to the higher specific gravity of LS and the higher concentration of NaOH. The optimum ingredient mixture for the specimen was found at an LS/MSWI FA ratio of 1/1, an Na2SiO3/NaOH ratio of 80/20, an NaOH concentration of 5 molar, and a CF content of 0.5%, which meets the 7-day UCS requirement for non-bearing masonry units and offers the highest FS. The specimen containing CF developed a denser matrix compared to the sample without CF because the addition of CF content promotes a geopolymerization reaction. The P-values of independent parameters were less than 0.05, indicating statistical significance at the 95% confidence level.

Micromechanics of Tensile Strength of Thermo-mechanical Pulp Reinforced Poly(lactic) Acid Biodegradable Composites

Abstract: ABSTRACT Development of materials that are biobased and environmental sound is one of the goals within the current bioeconomy. This goal comes from an increasing conscientious society that pushes manufacturers and regulators toward a sustainable development. However, to be a feasible alternative, biobased materials should also match or outperform the mechanical performance of fossil-based materials. In this study, wood pulp fiber-reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) biocomposites were prepared, tested, and compared with glass fiber reinforced polypropylene. Pre-extrusion with a kinetic mixer and subsequent injection processing ensured correct dispersion of the reinforcement. The biocomposites showed mechanical properties in line with commercial materials, comparable to composites reinforced with 20% w/w of glass fiber. Micromechanics of PLA-based biocomposites showed the existence of strong interphase between the matrix and the pulp fibers. The interfacial shear strength was around 29 MPa and with a intrinsic tensile strength of the fibers 729 MPa. These materials offer a reliable alternative to oil-based matrices reinforced with mineral fibers.

Green and Sustainable Method to Improve Fixation of a Natural Functional Dye onto Cotton Fabric Using Cationic Dye-Fixing Agent/D5 Microemulsion

Abstract: ABSTRACT The low fixation rate and colorfastness of natural dyes limit their practical application in modern textile coloration. Further, hazardous mordants are used in conventional natural dyeing to achieve better fixation and colorfastness. Herein, a green, sustainable, and environmental benign fixation process of natural dye was developed using a non-aqueous medium in the absence of mordants to enhance the fixation rate and colorfastness of the dyed fabric. The process was executed by the treatment of the cacao husk extracts/decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5) dyed cotton fabric with a cationic dye-fixation agent (CFA)/D5 microemulsion. The conditions of optimal dye fixation process including water content, fixation time, fixation temperature, and CFA mass were determined by using L9 orthogonal array. Significant improvements in the fixation rate (95.03%) and color strength (15.26) were found after CFA treatment under the optimal conditions. Although the light fastness of the CFA-treated dyed fabrics was poor, the colorfastness to rubbing and washing were remarkable. The cacao husk extracts natural functional dye significantly enhanced the UV resistance of the dyed fabric, and the CFA treatment improved the crease recovery characteristic of the dyed fabric. The stiffness of the fabric decreased slightly after dyeing and CFA treatment. Consequently, this study paved the way for the sustainable and green dyeing process.

Cotton Agriculture in Turkey and Worldwide Economic Impacts of Turkish Cotton

Abstract: ABSTRACT Cotton is a product that provides wealth for humanity with its widespread and compulsory usage, and alongside creating employment opportunities in the producer countries. Due to the availability of suitable land for agriculture, seven countries including Turkey produce close to 80% of cotton worldwide. The average cotton yield in Turkey is above the world average, placing the country close to first place among the major producing countries. On the other hand, Turkey is one of the main countries engaged in organic cotton production by using only non-transgenic seeds and therefore, its cotton as a brand is registered as “GMO Free Turkish Cotton”. This provides a privileged position to the country as “the only country in the world producing GMO-free cotton”. Also, the Turkish textile industry is a driving sector for the country in terms of producing high-quality products, bringing foreign exchange to the country and creating a large labor-intensive workforce for the country. In this study, the state of cotton affairs was discussed in detail using relevant data along with its trade and importance in the textile industry in the world and Turkey.

Banana Fiber Extraction and Surface Characterization of Hybrid Banana Reinforced Composite

Abstract: ABSTRACT For many engineering applications, especially in case of automobiles, natural fibers are a better replacement for artificially made fibers when it is reinforced as polymer composite materials. Here, banana fiber, a socio-economic natural fiber was used in higher volume fractions for reinforcement with the synthetic carbon fiber. Four different specimens, namely S1, S2, S3, and S4 consisting of 80%, 70%, 60%, and 50% volume fraction of banana fiber, were reinforced with the carbon fiber by hand lay-up method. The banana fibers used were chemically treated using a 5% NaOH solution to enhance their mechanical properties. Various mechanical-oriented properties like flexural, tensile, and impact strength of the prepared specimens were analyzed. The samples S1, S2, S3, and S4 could survive 243, 246, 249, and 253 MPa of flexural strength, a tensile strength of 173.2, 175.5, 177.1, and 179.3 MPa, elongation of 14.11%, 13.92%, 13.72%, and 13.51% and impact strength of 16, 16.5, 16.9, and 17.3 J, respectively. SEM investigation has been obtained for specimen S1 with optimal mechanical properties for further study on voids and fracture over the surface of the reinforced matrix composite material. The study shows that epoxy incorporation over banana fiber composites improved the fiber-matrix adhesion and compatibility.

Characterization Studies on New Natural Cellulosic Fiber Extracted from the Stem of Ageratina Adenophora Plant

Abstract: ABSTRACT The present study focuses on the possibility of using Ageratina Adenophora (AA) fiber as reinforcement in structural polymer composite materials because of its eco-friendly nature as well as lightweight. Due to high specific strength and modulus of fiber, reinforced polymer composites tend to be a viable option replace many metallic structures. By nature, synthetic fibers become a risk for health as it leads to cancer. Suitable applications replace conventional and synthetic materials, in cases where energy conservation and very little weight is required. Ageratina Adenophora stem fiber undergoes comprehensive characterization analysis such as Thermal Gravimetric Analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Physico-chemical analysis. The fibers were extracted from Ageratina Adenophora plant stem. Ageratina Adenophora Stem Fiber (AASF) contains high cellulose content of 65.7% and very little wax. Good thermal stability of the fiber up to 244°C was obtained from thermogravimetric analysis, which is indicated within its polymerization process temperature. The results of this investigation encourage its applications to be used in industries for manufacturing fiber reinforced composites.

Effect of Alkalization on Physical, Chemical, Morphological and Mechanical Properties of Arial Root Ficus Amplissima Fibre

Abstract: ABSTRACT Natural fiber’s hydrophilic property leads to reduced bond strength for its incompatibility with the matrix. This problem can be sorted out by treating the surface of the fiber. In this connection, the chemical, physical, thermal, and surface morphological properties of alkali-treated Arial root Ficus Amplissima fiber (ARFAF) have been investigated. By using the TGA, the alkali treatment of ARFAF was optimized, and 5% (w/v) NaOH and 45 min of the soaking period was found to be the best. Optimally treated ARFAF improved the cellulose content from (52.64 wt. %) to (61.67 wt. %) and reduced the hemicellulose from (10.64 wt. %) to (6.22 wt. %), crystallinity index improved from (39%) to (43.33%), tensile strength improved from (250.7 ± 11.26MPa) to (278.4 ± 13.20 MPa), thermal stability improved from (200°C) to (230°C), and it improved the surface topography compared with raw ARFAF.

Investigation on physico-chemical, mechanical and thermal properties of extracted novel pinus roxburghii fiber

Abstract: ABSTRACT The adverse environmental effects of synthetic fibers have forced researchers to use natural fibers in composite preparation. Pinus Roxburghii Needles (PRNs) are widely available in the hilly region of Uttarakhand state, India. Utilizing the fiber extracted from PRNs as reinforcement in bio-composite preparation can reduce synthetic fiber and emphasize the use of natural resources. In this study, we extract the Pinus Roxburghii Fibers (PRFs) from PRNs using the water retting method. Their physical, chemical, thermal, and morphological aspects were investigated and reported. The average diameter and density of the extracted PRFs were obtained as 145 ± 17.36 µm and 1020 ± 20.27 kg/m3, respectively. The chemical analysis revealed that the extracted PRFs contain 58.30% cellulose content. Thermal stability and maximum degradation temperature of the extracted PRFs were assessed using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and found to be 225°C and 355.84°C, respectively. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) and Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) were used to study the surface morphology and surface roughness of PRFs, respectively. Further, the FTIR analysis of the extracted PRFs confirmed the presence of different functional groups of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. The crystallinity index (43.52%) and crystal size (4.03 nm) of the extracted PRFs were determined using X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis.

A Review on Natural Plant Fiber Epoxy and Polyester Composites – Coating and Performances

Abstract: ABSTRACT In the last two decades, there has been an incredible awareness on natural plant fiber composites due to their biodegradability, low weight, non-corrosiveness, and recyclability. Many studies have been attempted to improve the performance of the natural plant fiber composite since it has many applications in the engineering sectors. But the adaptation of natural plant fiber composite has some drawbacks such as water absorption, non-linearity in fiber dimensions, low interfacial adhesion between fiber-matrix, and less uniform strength of the fiber. Several studies have attempted to enhance the natural plant fiber composite properties by various fibers, matrix, fiber orientation, fiber treatment, fiber loading, fiber length, fillers, and other reinforcements. However, fiber’s hydrophilic character is inevitable and influences the composite performance. To overcome the drawback, fiber coating is a felicitous technique. Few researchers have performed the fiber (Sisal, Jute, Flax, Ramie, Bamboo) coating to enhance the composite properties of tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strength, water resistance, viscoelastic behavior, and electrical conductivity. Considering the importance of fiber coating (Dip, Spray, Electroless), the present study summarizes the fiber coating types, coating materials, and their composite performance.