Investigation of physico-mechanical properties of <i>Mimosa pudica</i> micro-fibrils as an effective reinforcement in polymer composite

This paper explores the potential of inedible weed Mimosa pudica (MP) micro-fibers as a novel reinforcement in thermoplastic resins. Performance analysis of the fibers extracted from the stem by sodium hydroxide (NaOH) retting has been done through a morphological study using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), tensile tests, Thermogravimetric (TG)/Differential Thermogravimetric (DTG), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses. Weibull’s model yielded characteristic tensile strength as 77 MPa and Young’s modulus as 6248 MPa while Weibull’s moduli were 1.42 and 1.31, respectively. TG/DTG analysis yielded initial and maximum degradation temperatures of 220°C and 314°C, respectively, and weight loss of 15% at 240°C, which is suitable for processing the fibers with thermoplastic resins as well as bio-resins. SEM analysis revealed the rough surface of the micro-fibrils required for proper bonding with polymer matrices. The outcome of the study indicates that MP fibers characterized by significantly low water absorption, good thermal stability, and moderate tensile strength, have shown promise as reinforcement in polymer matrix composites.