Utilization of lignin from agricultural waste for enhancing performance of natural rubber composite

The growing demand for sustainable materials has driven research into utilizing lignin, a natural polymer derived from agricultural waste, as a reinforcing filler in natural rubber composites. This study investigates lignin extraction from sugarcane bagasse using an alkaline process with varying sodium hydroxide concentrations (10–40% w/v) to optimize yield and purity. The extracted lignin was characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), confirming the presence of functional groups such as O–H, C=O, and C–H, consistent with commercial lignin. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) was employed to evaluate thermal stability, revealing three main degradation stages: moisture evaporation, structural breakdown, and residual decomposition. Mechanical properties of the lignin-filled natural rubber composites were evaluated through tensile testing followingISO 37. The results were compared with those of rubber composites containing a conventional antioxidant. The findings indicate that lignin derived from sugarcane bagasse can enhance the tensile strength of rubber to a level comparable with conventional antioxidants, highlighting its potential as an eco-friendly reinforcing filler.