Valorization of Agave amica leaf waste into high-performance natural fibers for polymer composites

Abstract

This study reports the extraction and characterization of Agave amica leaf fibers (AALFs), an underutilized agricultural by-product, as a sustainable reinforcement for polymer composites. Fibers were extracted via eco-friendly hot-water retting and sun-drying, exhibiting a fineness of 12.65 ± 3.25 tex, density of 1.08 ± 0.055g cm⁻³, and moderate cellulose content (53.45 wt%). Structural analyses (XRD, FTIR, SEM–EDS) confirmed a crystalline, fibrillated morphology compatible with polymer matrices. Mechanical testing showed tensile strengths of 52–57MPa and Young’s modulus of 1.68–1.84 GPa, while thermal stability up to ~ 245°C enables processing under common composite manufacturing conditions. These results demonstrate the potential of AALFs as lightweight, sustainable reinforcement for polymer composites in automotive, packaging, and textile applications, supporting circular economy and waste valorization strategies.