Extraction and Characterization Study on Allium cepa L. var. aggregatum Residual- A Sustainable Fibre for Textile Application

Objective: Currently, most research in the textile field focuses primarily on developing new eco-friendly fibres extracted from plants and their residues, which are incorporated into various textile products. This study investigates the extraction, characterization, and analysis of fibres derived from the roots of Allium cepa L. var. aggregatum. This vegetation was selected due to its widespread cultivation as food ingredient; however, its roots are non-consumable and are typically discarded as landfill waste. Therefore, we selected this and examine the potential of these fibres for textile applications. Methods: Residues were collected from fields, and fibres were extracted using the water retting method. Subsequently, fibre characterization was conducted to analyse their properties. Findings: Fibre characterization include fibre identification, structural analysis, and elemental composition, examined using FESEM and EDX analysis. The presence of chemical groups and the percentage of chemical groups and the percentage of chemical compounds in the fibres were determined using FTIR and chemical composition test. The crystallographic structure was analysed using XRD, a peak point found at 22.09ɵ position, revealing a crystallinity index of 78.82%. Thermal stability and melting point under heat exposure were assessed using TGA, which showed a residual mass of 26.97% and DTA which determined a melting point of 436.00C. Additionally, fibre toxicity was evaluated through an in vitro cytotoxicity test, which indicated 94% cell viability in PBS extract and 89% cell viability in cottonseed oil extract. Novelty: This study details the extraction of fibres from the agro-residue of Allium cepa.L.var.aggregatum, a material that has not been previously utilized for textile applications. It evaluates the structural thermal, mechanical and biocompatibility properties to assess its suitability for textile applications. Keywords: Agro- residual, Fibre extraction, Fibre characterization study, Fibre chemical analysis, Thermal stability, Sustainable textile fibre