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In the past decades, lignocellulose fibers have attracted significant attention due to their low density, environmental friendliness, and biodegradability. Consequently, researchers are intensifying their efforts to explore the potential of lignocellulosic fibers as sustainable alternatives to synthetic fibers in polymer composites. Among various natural fibers identified as potential reinforcements, agro-waste from the Asparagus Bean stem (ABS) which has been discarded as landfill after harvest has emerged as a promising source of lignocellulose fibers for promoting sustainability. This study investigates the reinforcement suitability of ABSF in polymer matrices. A water-retting process was used for extraction, followed by treatment with a 5 % alkali solution. Cellulose content was enhanced to 65 wt%, and fiber density increased to 1.13 g/cm 3 after chemical treatment. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated improved thermal stability of the treated fibers up to 247 °C. Morphological analysis showed increased surface roughness and impurity removal. To evaluate the reinforcing effect of the chemical treatment, epoxy composites with 10 wt% reinforcement were developed. The mechanical properties of these composites improved significantly, with more than 1.1 times when used alkali-treated ABSF as reinforcement. Flexural properties were substantially enhanced, with flexural strength increasing from 90.53 MPa to 122.71 MPa and flexural modulus from 2.41 GPa to 2.95 GPa due to better fiber-matrix interaction and removal of weak, amorphous constituents. The primary objective of this study is to demonstrate that ABSF is a viable alternative raw material for composite reinforcement, suitable for developing lightweight structural applications., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest We wish to confirm that there are no known conflicts of interest associated with this publication and there has been no significant financial support for this work that could have influenced its outcome., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

In a world that canopies numerous opportunities to advance towards a green sustainable life, biopolymer development offers a platform that fits into the paradigm of achieving an eco-friendly environment whilst reducing reliance on the scarce fossil fuel elements for the fabrication of day-to-day products. Today's technological improvements have aided biopolymer end-products to escalate to higher purposes and soon may have their performance level in par with the petroleum-based synthetic polymers. The motive of this paper is to shimmer light on some aspects of biopolymers that include its classes, properties, composites and applications. Depending on the type of class on the basis of various categories, many enthralling chemistries of polymer composition can be substantiated. Essential properties can imparted to the ensuing biopolymer by altering its chemical configuration and method of synthesis while also focusing on its functional purpose. Nowadays, biopolymer composites blend qualities of one biopolymer with another to acquire an enhanced component that showcases unique explicit attributes. There are several techniques to process biopolymer composites, of which in-situ, infiltration and electrospinning methods have captured considerable limelight. Biopolymers and its composites have embarked captivating impressions in regions of biomedical, packaging, agricultural and automotive applications. Although their efficacy is yet to reach their fossil fuel counterparts, biopolymers have laid a distinguishing mark that will continue to inspire creation of novel substances for many years to come., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)