Characterization of a Novel Careya arborea Roxb. Fibers as a Potential Reinforcement for Sustainable Polymer Composites

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Journal of Natural Fibers

Abstract

Composites are increasingly replacing conventional materials across industries due to their superior performance. With rising environmental concerns, attention has shifted toward sustainable alternatives such as natural fiber reinforcements. This study investigates Wild Guava bark fibers, botanically Careya arborea Roxb. (CAR), as a potential reinforcement for polymer composites. CAR fibers were characterized for chemical composition, physical attributes, and tensile properties. They exhibited high cellulose content (62%) and low hemicellulose (0.71%), contributing to a tensile strength of 30.83 MPa and a crystallinity index of 68.2%. Chemical treatments using sodium hydroxide, potassium permanganate, and stearic acid were applied to enhance fiber performance. Fibers treated with 0.05% potassium permanganate for 3 min showed the highest tensile strength, followed by 3% sodium hydroxide (18 h) and 3% stearic acid (24 h) treatments. Corresponding crystallinity indices were 73.5%, 70.9%, and 67.7%, respectively. Functional groups were analyzed via Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and surface morphology was examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The results demonstrate the potential of CAR fibers as a sustainable and effective reinforcement for polymer matrix composites, particularly in applications such as automotive interiors, and packaging materials where biodegradability and mechanical performance are critical.

DOI

10.1080/15440478.2025.2557470

Publication Date

1-1-2025

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