Chromolaena odorata stem biowaste as natural bio-reinforcement for polymer composites: effective waste management technique

Abstract

To generate sustainable products, composite industries must use readily available natural resources and agricultural waste as raw materials. The current study is focused with the separation and characterization of Chromolaena Odorata stem fibers from the stem of the often-encountered wild plant C. Odorata, which remains as agricultural waste after its life cycle, causing an unpleasant odour in the environment. Comparisons of C. Odorata stem fiber to other commonly used natural fibers were conducted to ensure C. Odorata stem fiber’s potential and viability in improving the sustainability of the automotive sector, pointing to an effective waste management approach. According to estimates, C. Odorata stem fiber has a primary cellulose content of 67.45 wt%, less wax of 0.96 wt%, a lower density of 1.11 g/cm³, an elevated crystallinity index of 51%, tensile strength ranging from 129 to 208 MPa, and Young’s modulus ranging from 2.7 to 4.0 GPa. Furthermore, thermal study (Thermogravimetric and Digital scanning calorimetry) ensures the thermal stability of C. Odorata stem fiber up to 232 °C, as well as exothermic and endothermic behaviors at such temperatures. Functional groups in C. Odorata stem fiber were found using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The evaluation of C. Odorata stem fiber values and surface texture using scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy supports the use of environmentally friendly C. Odorata stem fiber as an augmentation material in polymer composites for light-weight structural applications.