Development of a biocomposite based on cassava bagasse and fique fiber with potential use in the manufacture of pots: physical–mechanical characterization and biodegradability

Abstract The objective of this study was to develop a biocomposite material from cassava bagasse and fique fiber with potential use in the manufacture of pots. The study began with the characterization of cassava bagasse and fique fiber, and then proceeded to obtain the composite material with its respective characterization. The fique fibers showed a water absorption of 55.78 ± 4.27%, a tensile strength of 298.645 MPa, a modulus of elasticity of 5.3 GPa and an elongation of 11.47%, an aspect ratio between 10 and 50, a maximum peak degradation of 359 °C and a crystallinity of 63%. In the case of cassava bagasse, it showed a maximum degradation peak at 317 °C. A crystallinity of 45.3% and the morphological study revealed a structure composed of small starch granules surrounded by cellulosic fibers. The composite material was obtained with a mixture of 35% fique fiber and 65% cassava bagasse gel. This biocomposite had low water absorption and high mechanical strength. FTIR analysis indicated that the band between 3200 and 3700 cm −1 broadened slightly after the addition of fique fiber, which could be due to the formation of intermolecular hydrogen bonds between starch and fiber. In addition, the material was found to meet the biodegradability condition required by EN 13432. Graphical abstract