Structural and nonlinear dynamic characterization of nanocellulose from Cocos nucifera endocarps for high-performance composite applications

Nanocellulose derived from Cocos nucifera endocarps exhibits exceptional structural, morphological, and dynamic characteristics that suggest promising potential for high-performance composite applications. X-ray diffraction reveals preservation of the cellulose I crystalline structure with an increased crystallinity index of 60.8% compared to 51% in cellulose. Scanning electron microscopy confirms nanoscale dimensions (26.07 nm diameter and 61.84 nm length) and a porosity of 31.37%, both of which are favorable for polymer interaction and stress transfer. To explore the dynamic behavior, nonlinear analysis including recurrence quantification, fractal, and multifractal metrics were applied. These analyses reveal higher determinism and entropy in nanocellulose, indicating greater structural complexity and regularity. However, these findings are theoretical and predictive in nature, and no composite fabrication or mechanical testing was conducted. Therefore, implications regarding mechanical behavior such as nonlinear viscoelasticity are presented as hypotheses to be validated in future studies. This integrative study combines morphological and dynamic insights to lay the foundation for subsequent application-driven research in composite material design. Graphical abstract illustrating the enhanced crystallinity, nanoscale morphology, superior nonlinear dynamics, and application potential of nanocellulose compared to cellulose, emphasizing its suitability for high-performance composites • X-ray Diffraction (XRD) patterns showing higher crystallinity of nanocellulose. • SEM images illustrating the fibrous structure of cellulose and the nanoscale dimensions of nanocellulose. • Radar chart showcasing superior nonlinear dynamics metrics for nanocellulose. • Visualization of nanocellulose’s porous structure enhancing polymer bonding and stress transfer. • Application potential in aerospace and automotive industries.