Citric acid treatment: A new approach to improving Ampelodesma mauritanica fibers-poly-lactic acid composites

This research investigated the impact of citric acid treatment on the adhesive properties of a composite material based on a poly-lactic acid matrix and Ampelodesma mauritanica fibers. Citric acid, a natural and biodegradable compound, was chosen as a more environmentally friendly alternative to the alkaline treatments traditionally used. Using a palatograph, biocomposite samples with a weight percentage of 20 % fiber were produced. Characterization was carried out using different methods such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques, were used to examine the treated and untreated fiber samples. Citric acid treatment led to a reduction in the quantities of hemicellulose, lignin and wax. This observation is confirmed by the disappearance or attenuation of absorption bands at 1650 and 1731 cm-1 in the spectra. In addition, the treatments improved crystallinity, thermal stability and surface roughness of Diss (Ampelodesma mauritanica) fibers. Furthermore, Polylactic acid composites reinforced with medium-length Diss fibers were subjected to mechanical tests (Izod impact strength, tensile strength and elongation at repture), were used to characterize Poly-lactic acid composites reinforced with natural Diss (Ampelodesma mauritanica) fibers. In contrast with untreated composites, the mechanical properties of treated composites showed an increase in the modulus of elasticity, tensile strength, and elongation at repture, with values of 4.680 GPa, 48.90 MPa, and 2.52 %, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy assessments of treated composites also confirmed these findings. • Citric acid treatment on the adhesive properties of poly-lactic acid matrix and Ampelodesma mauritanica was investigated. • Citric acid treatment led to a reduction in the quantities of hemicellulose, lignin and wax. • The treatments improved crystallinity, thermal stability and surface roughness of Ampelodesma mauritanica. • Compared to untreated composites, treated composites showed an increase in overall mechanical property.