Valorization of Pennisetum setaceum: From Invasive Plant to Fiber Reinforcement of Injected Composites

Abstract

During the control campaigns of Pennisetum setaceum (invasive species widespread worldwide), the generated waste has accumulated in landfills. This study investigates its use to obtain P. setaceum fibers for their application as reinforcement of polymeric materials for injection molding, thus facilitating and promoting alternatives for the long-term sustainable management of P. setaceum. The extracted fibers were treated with alkaline, silane, acetic acid, and combined alkaline and silane treatments. Different composites with 20 and 40 wt% of fiber were extruded, and test samples were obtained by injection molding using recycled polyethylene as matrix. The composition of the fibers was determined by gravimetric methods, and contrasted with the analysis of the functional chemical groups using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Increases of up to 47% in the cellulose content of the treated fiber were observed. The thermal degradation was also evaluated using thermogravimetric analysis, which determined an increase in the degradation temperature, from 194 to 230 °C, after the combined alkaline–silane treatment. In order to analyze the differences in the composites, tensile, flexural, and impact properties were evaluated; in addition, differential scanning calorimetry was performed. Regarding the flexural behavior, it was possible to improve the flexural modulus up to 276% compared with that of the unreinforced polymer.

Print Quality of Coated Paper from Invasive Alien Plant Goldenrod

“…Several studies show that invasive plant species can be a more or less rich source of cellulose fibers, too. Cabrera-García et al investigated the use of Pennisetum setaceum in their application as a reinforcement of polymeric materials for injection molding [7]. Agave americana L. has shown great potential to be used as a reinforcement in polymer composites [8].…”

Seedling competition between Pennisetum setaceum (Poaceae) and three native weeds of La Primavera wood, Guadalajara, Jalisco (México)

“…It adapts to degraded and poor soils and arid climates and has become invasive in several countries, reducing biodiversity, impoverishing soils and displacing native grasses [7]. P. setaceum is highly resilient to the passage of fire due to its resistant root system and the rapid germination of its seeds after burning [8]. Its ability to adapt easily has threatened biodiversity in several natural areas around the world.…”