Characterization of new natural cellulosic fiber from kusha grass.

The present research work aimed to characterize new natural cellulosic kusha fibers extracted from the kusha grass plants. The physical and chemical properties of kusha fibers such as cellulose content (70.58%), lignin (14.35%), wax content (1.52%), ash content (2.46%), moisture content (8.01%), and density (1.1025 g cc−1) were identified. An X-ray diffraction of kusha fibers confirms the presence of cellulose with a crystalline index of 55.4%. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis was carried out to establish the certainty of using them as reinforcement fiber. Thermogravimetric analysis ensures thermal stability up to 357°C which is within the polymerization process temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]