Extraction and physical characterization of Nymphaea Rubra (water lily) cellulosic fiber for potential textile and...

As renewable resources, natural cellulosic fibers are gaining attention for their ability to replace synthetic fibers while offering environmental benefits, diverse applications, and solutions tailored to modern industrial needs, driving progress in sustainable material innovation. The Nymphaea Rubra water lily plant, chosen for its high ecological, economic, and sustainable value, was examined in this study for new cellulosic fiber extraction, characterization, and potential use in eco-friendly textiles and composites. Physical and mechanical properties of the water lily fiber were measured - linear density of 27.97 dtex, bulk density of 1.42 g/cm³, average diameter of 87.13 ± 30 μm, specific strength of 24.93 ± 12 g/tex, bundle strength of 19 g/tex, tensile strength of 90.91 ± 40 MPa, Young's modulus of 3.2 ± 1.41 GPa, and strain failure at 4.54 ± 1.63 %. The fiber's chemical composition showed 57.02 % α-cellulose, 28.44 % hemicellulose, and 9.1 % lignin, with 14.58 % moisture content. A crystallite size of 2.37 nm and a higher crystallinity index value of 79.44 % for the Segal method and 65.82 % for the deconvolution approach were found by X-ray diffraction (XRD) test. The fiber showed excellent thermal endurance in TGA and DSC tests, remaining thermally stable until 231.1 °C with a maximum degradation temperature of 338.51 °C. FTIR analysis was used to identify chemical groups, whereas EDX analysis revealed the quantitative fundamental elements of the fiber. The FESEM study demonstrated that the fiber had a distinct shape without a lumen or hollow cavity, unlike other bast natural cellulosic fibers. The discovered properties provide significant preference for high fiber/matrix adhesion, flexibility in choosing matrix materials, and robust mechanical properties for green composites. Furthermore, this fiber's longer length, finer texture, and unique morphology could be used to produce comfortably pleasing textile goods that aid in effective moisture and thermal management.