Extraction and characterization of new cellulosic fibers from Indian mallow stem: An exploratory investigation

ABSTRACT

Natural fibers are one of the good alternative sources for replacing synthetic fiber and reinforcing polymer matrices because of their eco-friendly nature. This investigation deals with the extraction and characterization of new natural fiber from Indian mallow plant stem. The physico-chemical, thermal, and mechanical properties of Indian mallow fibers (IMFs) were reported and compared with other natural fibers for the first time. Cellulose (78.22%), wax (0.47%), density (1.33 g/cm³), and tensile strength (979.83 MPa) were recognized in IMFs. Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and thermo-gravimetric analysis confirmed that IMFs are rich in cellulose content and thermally stable with a crystallinity index of 72%.

KEYWORDS:

• FTIR
• Indian mallow fibers
• mechanical properties
• physico-chemical properties
• TGA
• XRD

Acknowledgments

The authors are grateful for the support rendered by the management of the ULTRA College of Engineering and Technology for Women, K.L.N. College of Engineering, and K.L.N. College of Information Technology.