Effect of luffa fibre on tensile properties and oil absorption kinetics of starch composite

This study explores the development and characterization of biodegradable luffa fiber reinforced starch composites, with a focus on their tensile properties and oil absorption performance for potential application in oil spill remediation. Luffa cylindrica fibres, known for their high porosity and cellulose content, were incorporated into cornstarch matrices at varying weight percentages and enhanced with additives such as glycerol and stearic acid to improve flexibility and hydrophobicity. The composites were fabricated using the solution casting method and characterized through oil absorption tests, kinetic sorption analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), tensile testing, and digital microscopy. Results demonstrated that the inclusion of luffa fibres significantly increased oil absorption capacity compared to pure starch sheets, particularly in viscous oils such as hair oil, with higher wt% composites showing enhanced performance due to increased porosity and fibre-oil interaction. The pseudo first-order kinetic model best described the oil sorption behaviour, suggesting a physical adsorption mechanism. Furthermore, the tensile analysis revealed an improvement in mechanical strength with luffa fibre reinforcement, while FTIR confirmed the successful incorporation of functional additives. This research highlights the potential of luffa/starch-based composites as sustainable, cost-effective, and biodegradable alternatives to conventional synthetic oil absorbents, aligning with global efforts to reduce plastic pollution and promote green material innovation in environmental remediation.