Structural Characterization and Life Cycle Assessment of Sustainable Biocomposites from Raphia farinifera Inflorescence Cellulose

Transition toward sustainable materials has become a priority as environmental concerns surrounding petroleum based plastics intensify. Cellulose was extracted from Raphia farinifera inflorescence (RFI-C) as a renewable reinforcement in biodegradable polymer composites through alkali and bleaching treatments, cellulose was successfully isolated and structurally characterized. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed effective removal of lignin and hemicellulose, while X-ray Diffraction (XRD) revealed 68.5% high crystallinity index an indicative of enhanced compatibility with polymer matrices. Thermogravimetric analysis results showed a thermal stability degradation onset temperature of 290°C. Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis indicated a specific surface area of 38.7 m²/g and pore volume of 0.132 cm³/g while mechanical testing revealed a tensile strength of 52.3 MPa, confirming its reinforcement potential. Biodegradability was validated through a 60-day soil burial test, where progressive weight losses of 8.2–30.1% were observed. A preliminary Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) using SimaPro software integrated long-range transport and end-of-life decomposition. Results showed RFI-C composites emitted ~ 1.8 kg CO₂-eq/kg and consumed ~ 12 MJ/kg of energy significantly lower than conventional plastic counterparts. Reductions in human toxicity, eutrophication and fossil resource depletion further reinforced its environmental benefits. The findings establish RFI-C as a promising (bio) based material with excellent inherent biodegradability, thermal, mechanical properties and a low environmental footprint. Its application aligns with global goals for sustainable materials, contributing meaningfully to plastic waste reduction, circular economy frameworks, and positive ecological impact.