Extensive characterization of optimally treated <i>Licuala grandis</i> leaf sheath fiber for possible bio‐reinforcement in polymer composites

Abstract The comprehensive characteristics of an ecologically viable cellulosic fiber from the leaf sheath of Licuala grandis L tree are alkaline modified and investigated in this study. The percentage of cellulose in ideally alkali‐modified Licuala grandis leaf sheath fiber (IALGLSF) increased by 15.8% following a 1 h treatment with a 5% (w/v) alkali buffer. Comparing IALGLSF to raw Licuala grandis leaf sheath fiber (LGLSF), an individual strand tensile testing revealed a 13.2% rise in tensile characteristics. Crystallinity index (CI) analysis using x‐ray diffraction (XRD) showed that IALGLSF had a 12.5% greater CI over LGLSF. Also, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) experiments validated partial removal of noncrystalline constituents from IALGLSF as a consequence of alkali alteration. Additionally, thermogravimetric (TGA‐DTG) study, which is supported by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) inquiry, demonstrated that alkali alteration‐enhanced IALGLSF's thermal resistance from 223 to 229°C. Similarly, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has shown that rougher surface appearance of IALGLSF results from selective removal of noncrystalline constituents, which also provides better matrix contact during reinforcement for the production of eco‐friendly composites. The indicated outcomes validated that IALGLSF serves as a beneficial substitute for potentially harmful synthetic fibers in the production of sustainable biocomposites.