Characterization of Plumeria pudica bark fiber for reinforcing lightweight polymer composites and evaluating its physical, chemical, and thermal properties

This study delves into the realm of polymer composites with the aim of enriching the repertoire of natural reinforcements and broadening their potential applications. A pioneering examination of the physicochemical, thermal, tensile, and morphological attributes of Plumeria pudica fibers (PPF) is presented herein. Chemical analysis of PPF revealed a noteworthy predominance of cellulose at 61.1%, while hemicelluloses and lignin constituted 15.3% and 13.6%, respectively. Additionally, minute quantities of wax (2.5%) and ash (3.91%) were detected. The chemical composition of the fiber underscores its inherent suitability for reinforcement applications. Structural elucidation of PPF was pursued through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), which provides insight into its molecular architecture. Furthermore, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed a crystallinity index of 50% and a crystalline size of 20 nm, underscoring the well-defined crystalline nature of PPF. This crystalline structure endows PPF with considerable mechanical strength and reinforces its applicability to composite materials. The surface morphology of PPF was meticulously examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and a 3D profilometer. These analyses provide a detailed visual representation of the surface characteristics of the fiber, further confirming its potential as a reinforcement material. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed the thermal stability of PPF, revealing that it can withstand temperatures up to 294°C. This remarkable thermal resilience makes PPF an ideal candidate for reinforcing thermoplastic green composites, particularly in applications where temperatures do not exceed this threshold. Comparative analysis of PPF against other natural fibers underscores its exceptional potential as a replacement for its synthetic counterparts in composite manufacturing. PPF’s impressive blend of chemical composition, structural integrity, and thermal stability makes it a compelling choice for enhancing the performance and sustainability of composite materials.