Infra-Red Spectroscopy Analysis of Malva Fibers

The growing interest for natural materials as an environmentally friendly alternative for the substitution of energy intensive and non-sustainable synthetic materials, has motivated the use of lignocellulosic fibers as reinforcement of polymer composites. The malva fiber, a relatively unknown lignocellulosic fiber with potential for composite reinforcement, still needs to be characterized for possible engineer applications. Therefore, the present work analyzed the malva fiber by means of Fourier Transform Infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy. The malva fiber FTIR spectrum revealed main absorption bands typical of any lignocellulosic fiber. However, some specific bands as well as bands broadening and intensity suggested particular activities for functional molecular groups in the malva fiber.