Influence of Extraction Techniques on the Physicochemical Properties of Agave decipiens Fibers
J. Environ. Nanotechnol., Volume 15, No 3 (September 2026) pp. 177-186
Abstract
Natural fiber extraction techniques are important for determining the physicochemical properties and reinforcing potential of plant fibers for sustainable polymer composites. Comparing fiber extraction techniques is essential for identifying suitable processing routes that enhance the properties and reinforcement potential of renewable natural fibers for sustainable composite applications. This study comparatively evaluated the effects of water retting and mechanical decortication on the characteristics of Agave decipiens fibers. The extracted fibers were characterized using single-fiber tensile testing, chemical composition analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to determine fiber structure–property relationships of the fibers. The mechanically decorticated fibers exhibited higher tensile strength (477.72 MPa), higher cellulose content (60.78%), and a higher crystallinity index (47.99%) than the water-retted fibers. Further FTIR and SEM analyses revealed fewer residual amorphous components and comparatively cleaner fiber surfaces after mechanical decortication. These data suggest that mechanical decortication may yield fibers with greater stiffness and suitable surface features that could improve fiber–matrix interactions after appropriate surface modification. The results provide valuable insights into the influence of extraction techniques on the structure–property relationships of A. decipiens fibers and contribute to the selection of suitable extraction methods for developing high-performance, sustainable natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites.
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Reference
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