Sustainable valorization of Alpinia galanga pseudostem fibers for characterization and materials engineering applications

The growing emphasis on sustainability has spurred interest in natural fibers as renewable and biodegradable alternatives to synthetic materials. This study explores the underutilized pseudostem fibers of Alpinia galanga (A. galanga), a perennial herb of the Zingiberaceae family, widely cultivated for its rhizomes in traditional medicine and culinary practices. Despite its economic and ethnobotanical significance, the pseudostems are often discarded as agricultural waste, contributing to environmental challenges. This research investigates the structural, chemical, and mechanical properties of A. galanga fibers, revealing their high cellulose and lignin content and lightweight nature making them viable for lightweight composite applications. To overcome inherent limitations such as high moisture content and limited mechanical performance, the fibers underwent alkaline and permanganate chemical treatments. Advanced characterization techniques, including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR, Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and tensile strength testing, were employed to evaluate the effects of these treatments on thermal stability, crystallinity, and mechanical performance. Results demonstrated significant enhancements in tensile strength, thermal resistance, and structural integrity, underscoring the fibers' potential as eco-friendly reinforcement agents in composite materials. This pioneering study not only provides the first comprehensive characterization of A. galanga pseudostem fibers but also offers a sustainable solution to agricultural waste management, advancing the development of renewable, high-performance materials and promoting circular economy practices.