Mahua oil cake microcellulose as a performance enhancer in flax fiber composites: Mechanical strength and sound absorption analysis

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effect of incorporating Mahua oil cake microcellulose (MOCM) on the mechanical and sound absorption properties of flax fiber‐reinforced polymer composites fabricated using the compression molding technique. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that MOCM had a crystallite size ( C s ) of 6.71 nm and a crystallinity index (CI) of 63.25%, indicating its potential for mechanical reinforcement. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) demonstrated that MOCM exhibits thermal stability up to 355.44°C, which is suitable for high‐temperature applications. Mechanical testing revealed that the incorporating 7.5 wt.% MOCM into flax fiber composites achieved optimal results, with the tensile strength reaching 70.23 MPa, flexural strength peaking at 113.23 MPa, and impact strength at 33.4 kJ/m 2 . Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis confirmed the improved interfacial bonding between the fibers and matrix, contributing to enhanced mechanical performance. The noise reduction coefficient (NRC) and sound absorption coefficient (SAC) also improved with increasing MOCM content, with the highest SAC (0.328) and NRC (0.312) values observed at 10 wt.% MOCM. These findings suggest that MOCM enhances both the mechanical and acoustic properties of flax fiber composites, making it a promising material for applications in the automotive, aerospace, and construction industries, where both structural integrity and sound absorption are critical. Highlights Novel use of MOCM as sustainable cellulose for polymer composites Synergy of MOCM and flax fibers enhances mechanical and acoustic properties 7.5% MOCM compositions optimally improves strength and sound absorption MOCM: eco‐friendly alternative to synthetic fillers in polymers Comprehensive MOCM characterization for future biomaterial applications