The current investigation aims to choose an alternate potential replacement for the nonbiodegradable synthetic fibers used in polymer composites. This goal motivated the thorough characterization of Rosa hybrida bark (RHB) fibers. The research explored fiber characterization such as morphological, mechanical, thermal, and physical properties. The suggested fiber features a percentage of cellulose, hemicellulose molecules, and lignin of 52.99 wt%, 18.49 wt%, and 17.34 wt%, respectively according to chemical composition studies, which improves its mechanical properties. It is suitable for lightweight applications due to its decreased density (1.194 gcm-3). The purpose of the Fourier transform infrared spectroscope was to observe and record how various chemical groups were distributed throughout the surface of the fiber. The presence of 1.41 nm-sized crystalline cellulose and further XRD analysis showed a crystallinity index of 75.48 %. Scanning electron microscope studies revealed that RHB fibers have a rough surface. According to a single fiber tensile test, for gauge length (GL) 40 mm, Young's modulus and tensile strength of RHB fibers were 6.57 GPa and 352.01 MPa, respectively, and for GL 50 mm, 9.02 GPa and 311 MPa, respectively. Furthermore, thermo-gravimetric examination revealed that the isolated fibers were thermally stable up to 290 °C and the kinetic activation energy was found to be 75.32 kJ/mol. The fibers taken from the Rosa hybrida flower plants' bark exhibit qualities similar to those of currently used natural fibers, making them a highly promising replacement for synthetic fibers in polymer matrix composites.
Keywords: Cellulosic fibers; Chemical characteristics; Mechanical properties; Morphological studies; Rosa hybrida bark fibers; Thermal stability.
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