Impact of Extraction Method on the Properties of Polymer Composites Reinforced with Natural Fiber from Agave Americana L

Abstract

Abstract In this study, we introduce a novel extraction technique involving burying lignocellulosic fibers from the leaves of Agave Americana L in soil. These fibers are then used to reinforce a polymer epoxy, aiming to enhance the mechanical and physical properties of the composite material. The aim is to valorize Agave Americana L, which is abundant and available in large quantities in Tunisia. The fiber content for the composites was chosen (0%, 10%, and 20%) to enhance the properties of the polymer composite. The mechanical, physical, and morphological properties of the composites were evaluated using SEM and EDX. Results showed that the flexural properties of the composites, based on biological and raw fibers (RFE10, FE10, RFE20, and BFE20), increased with the higher content of agave fibers. Furthermore, the mechanical findings revealed flexural strength varying between 141.74 and 161.92 MPa, and a modulus strength ranging between 8902 and 13674 MPa for biological fiber weights of 10% and 20%, respectively.