Isolation and Analysis of Cellulosic Fiber Derived from <i>Anisomeles malabaricus</i> Stems

This study characterizes the Anisomeles malabaricus Stem Fiber (AMSF) to examine the potential of using a polymer as reinforcement. The analysis delves into the composition, structure, and thermal behavior of AMSF to elucidate its potential applications in various industries. AMSF exhibits a complex matrix comprising 55.32 wt.% cellulose, 15.34 wt.% hemicelluloses, and 13.64 wt.% lignin, highlighting its rich composition essential for mechanical strength and resilience. The higher percentage of cellulose IV in the fiber was identified via XRD analysis, and the crystallinity index of the AMSF was measured at 36.26%. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis identified functional groups, including hydroxyl groups (3739 cm−1) from cellulose and carbonyl groups (1755 cm−1) from lignin and wax, further contributing to AMSF’s diverse chemical constituents. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) showcased AMSF’s notable thermal stability withstanding temperatures up to 320°C. The kinetic activation energy of the AMSF was derived as 71.86 kJ/mol, which once again confirmed the higher thermal stability of the AMSF. Single fiber tensile test revealed AMSFs provide higher rigidity and resistance to deformation a crucial property for load-bearing composite applications. These findings underscore the versatility and potential of AMSF for use in textiles, composites, and biomaterials.