**1. Introduction**

Decreased and depleted petroleum resources coupled with augmentation of environmental problem through the world provides the alternatives for new biomaterials that are compatible with the environment and their development is independent of petroleum-based resources. A composite materials made from natural fiber reinforced with biodegradable polymer are in growing constantly the use of environmentally friendly materials [1].

© 2017 The Author(s). Licensee InTech. This chapter is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Currently, numerous research groups have explored the production and properties of biocomposites where the polymer matrices are derived from renewable resources. They are the materials that have the capability to fully degrade and compatible with the environment.

At present, cellulose is the most abundant polymer available worldwide and a representative of renewable resources. In recent years, a number of bast-extracted fibers, alternative to the most used ones, such as jute, flax, hemp and kenaf, have been also proposed as reinforcement for plant fiber composites; these fibers are mainly from herbaceous plants. In general, trying to broaden the number of botanical species from which fibers are extracted may present interest.

The main purpose of this work is to characterize *Ampelodesma mauritanica* and esparto grass fibers in order to use them as reinforcement for structural composite materials. This choice is supported by the multiple advantages of natural fibers: they are available, renewable, and biodegradable, and they have a low price and represent an economic interest for the agriculture sector and different industries for different types of applications such as textiles, automobile constructions, medicines, paper industry and develop new products with vision and aim of sustainability.

Esparto grass includes an underground part and an aerial part. The underground part, called the Rhizome, is formed as a complex network of highly branched roots about 2 mm in diam-

Study of Some North African Grasses (*Ampelodesma mauritanica* and...

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45

The aerial part consists of several branches carrying cladding in the others, surmounted by

The underside of the limbs is slightly shiny and the upper side carries strong ribs. Both are

The stem is hollow and cylindrical, and regularly interrupted at the node by entanglements of the bundles. The leaves are cylindrical, very tenacious, 50–60 cm long. The flower is protected by two glumes of equal length. The upper glume seems to be partially separated into two parts and the lower glume is finer. Generally, flowers appear in late April and early May and are green in color. The fruit is a caryopsis (a kind of grain) that is 5–6 mm long. Its upper part is brown and often carries dried traces. Fibers from leaves and stems are very strong and used

The Alfa, which is the Arab name of esparto grass (*Stipa tenacissima*) plant, is a hardy peren-

eter and about 30–50 cm deep, ending in the young shoots (**Figure 1**).

in making paper; also the plant is a source of vegetable wax [7].

covered with an insulating wax which allows the plant to withstand drought.

limbs ranging from 30 to 120 cm in length.

**Table 1.** Scientific classification of esparto grass [6].

**Kingdom: Plantae** Order: Poales Family: Poaceae

Genus: *Macrochlora* or *Stipa* Species: *M. tenacissima*

*Binomial name: Macrochloa tenacissima*

nial grass from the family of the grass.

**Figure 1.** Morphology of esparto grass.

#### **1.1. Ampelodesma mauritanica (Diss)**

*A. mauritanica* (Diss), family of Poaceae, is a plant native of northern Africa and southern Europe and is perennial and luxuriant growing spontaneously in wild state around the Mediterranean basin. The antiparasitic property is the only traditional use of this plant [2]. This plant previously was used in the realization of the old homes of North Africa regions because of its mechanical qualities. Possibly the use of such a fibrous plant in cements paste offers resistances very interesting, which make this material as an excellent filling lightweight for structures subjected to seismic [3]. Antibacterial and antifungal activities of alcohol extracts of aerial parts of Diss plant were examined. Phytochemical analysis shows that this plant rich in flavonoids and saponins, which might be responsible for its antimicrobial activity.

The hypoglycemic effect and antioxidant activity of the methanol extract of *A. mauritanica* roots were studied.

The levels of the total phenolic and the total flavonoid content in *A. mauritanica* roots, and also its antioxidant capacity were determined. The Methanol root extract could be a valuable source of hypoglycemic compounds; the phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, cardenolides and tannins. It is observed that in some regions of Algeria, *A. mauritanica* has been used for reducing the blood glucose levels in diabetics [2, 4].

#### **1.2. Esparto grass (***Stipa tenacissima* **L.)**

*Stipa tenacissima* L. (esparto grass or alfa grass) belongs to the Graminacies family; the scientific classification is shown in (**Table 1**); esparto grass is a perennial tussock grass widely distributed in semi-arid ecosystems of the southern and western Mediterranean basin. The esparto grass is a typically Mediterranean perennial herb, which grows in clumps about 1m to 1m20 high, thus forming large sheets. It grows spontaneously. Particularly in arid and semi-arid environments, it delimits the desert, where the esparto grass (alfa) stops, the desert begins [5]. It has a short fiber length which produces a paper of bulk; esparto wax has been a by-product of esparto used in furniture and boot polish manufacture.


**Table 1.** Scientific classification of esparto grass [6].

Currently, numerous research groups have explored the production and properties of biocomposites where the polymer matrices are derived from renewable resources. They are the materials that have the capability to fully degrade and compatible with the environment.

At present, cellulose is the most abundant polymer available worldwide and a representative of renewable resources. In recent years, a number of bast-extracted fibers, alternative to the most used ones, such as jute, flax, hemp and kenaf, have been also proposed as reinforcement for plant fiber composites; these fibers are mainly from herbaceous plants. In general, trying to broaden the number of botanical species from which fibers are extracted may present interest. The main purpose of this work is to characterize *Ampelodesma mauritanica* and esparto grass fibers in order to use them as reinforcement for structural composite materials. This choice is supported by the multiple advantages of natural fibers: they are available, renewable, and biodegradable, and they have a low price and represent an economic interest for the agriculture sector and different industries for different types of applications such as textiles, automobile constructions, medicines, paper industry and develop new products with vision and aim of sustainability.

*A. mauritanica* (Diss), family of Poaceae, is a plant native of northern Africa and southern Europe and is perennial and luxuriant growing spontaneously in wild state around the Mediterranean basin. The antiparasitic property is the only traditional use of this plant [2]. This plant previously was used in the realization of the old homes of North Africa regions because of its mechanical qualities. Possibly the use of such a fibrous plant in cements paste offers resistances very interesting, which make this material as an excellent filling lightweight for structures subjected to seismic [3]. Antibacterial and antifungal activities of alcohol extracts of aerial parts of Diss plant were examined. Phytochemical analysis shows that this plant rich

in flavonoids and saponins, which might be responsible for its antimicrobial activity.

*A. mauritanica* has been used for reducing the blood glucose levels in diabetics [2, 4].

by-product of esparto used in furniture and boot polish manufacture.

The hypoglycemic effect and antioxidant activity of the methanol extract of *A. mauritanica*

The levels of the total phenolic and the total flavonoid content in *A. mauritanica* roots, and also its antioxidant capacity were determined. The Methanol root extract could be a valuable source of hypoglycemic compounds; the phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, cardenolides and tannins. It is observed that in some regions of Algeria,

*Stipa tenacissima* L. (esparto grass or alfa grass) belongs to the Graminacies family; the scientific classification is shown in (**Table 1**); esparto grass is a perennial tussock grass widely distributed in semi-arid ecosystems of the southern and western Mediterranean basin. The esparto grass is a typically Mediterranean perennial herb, which grows in clumps about 1m to 1m20 high, thus forming large sheets. It grows spontaneously. Particularly in arid and semi-arid environments, it delimits the desert, where the esparto grass (alfa) stops, the desert begins [5]. It has a short fiber length which produces a paper of bulk; esparto wax has been a

**1.1. Ampelodesma mauritanica (Diss)**

44 Grasses - Benefits, Diversities and Functional Roles

**1.2. Esparto grass (***Stipa tenacissima* **L.)**

roots were studied.

Esparto grass includes an underground part and an aerial part. The underground part, called the Rhizome, is formed as a complex network of highly branched roots about 2 mm in diameter and about 30–50 cm deep, ending in the young shoots (**Figure 1**).

The aerial part consists of several branches carrying cladding in the others, surmounted by limbs ranging from 30 to 120 cm in length.

The underside of the limbs is slightly shiny and the upper side carries strong ribs. Both are covered with an insulating wax which allows the plant to withstand drought.

The stem is hollow and cylindrical, and regularly interrupted at the node by entanglements of the bundles. The leaves are cylindrical, very tenacious, 50–60 cm long. The flower is protected by two glumes of equal length. The upper glume seems to be partially separated into two parts and the lower glume is finer. Generally, flowers appear in late April and early May and are green in color. The fruit is a caryopsis (a kind of grain) that is 5–6 mm long. Its upper part is brown and often carries dried traces. Fibers from leaves and stems are very strong and used in making paper; also the plant is a source of vegetable wax [7].

The Alfa, which is the Arab name of esparto grass (*Stipa tenacissima*) plant, is a hardy perennial grass from the family of the grass.

**Figure 1.** Morphology of esparto grass.

It is constituted of stems with a cylindrical shape which have a maximum height of about 1 m. Fiber differentiation is closely related to the vegetative cycle. The fibers are short and wide at the leaf base (basal level) and grow longer and thinner above the leaf [8]. The alfa stem is built of strong, stiff, and light cellulosic fibers which are mostly used in the production of high quality papers and for decoration, cigarettes, and dielectric applications for condensers; the stem is also used traditionally to manufacture ropes and carpets. The more recent information estimated that the esparto covered surface in hectares was approximately 3 million in Algeria [9, 10].

Due to its short fiber length, paper from esparto grass retains its bulk and takes block letters well. The esparto grass seems to prefer the calcareous soil, not very deep and permeable, with texture dominated by high sand rate. The high quantity of cellulose fiber contained in this plant, the flexibility, the smoothness, and the mechanical resistance of its fibers confer to it the very required properties in paper making; qualities recognized for a long time [11]. In addition to their multiple uses, natural fibers have shown many efficient properties such as heaviness, resistance, or flexibility which give them wide range of applications in textile field. In fact, they are recyclable and nature-friendly and nowadays they are exploited in automobile and medical applications. The fiber wastes from esparto grass offer a certain potential of liquid absorption and may be used as an absorbent fiber in hygienic products even in blends with fluff pulp [12]. In recent years, considerable attention has been given to the development and utilization of natural fibers. The main application of these materials as composites has been directed toward the automotive industries [13]. Composite materials were prepared using unsaturated polyester resins reinforced by Alfa fibers. Esparto grass fibers were evaluated for the production of bleached pulp [14]. To propose their application in composite materials, the question of chemical treatment is crucial, a preliminary study of chemical treatments to improve the properties of composite laminates [15]. As a consequence, a profound need exists for a sounder investigation of the morphological modifications produced by a wide range of chemical treatments on esparto fibers. Chemical treatments on esparto fibers increase the number of reaction sites [16], by removing non-structural matter such as hemicelluloses, lignin, and pectin [17]. However, alkaline treatment has been recognized capable of regenerating cellulose by the addition of OH groups, dissolving microscopic pits or cracks on the fibers alkali-treatment with NaOH and bleaching with sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) are applied on the fiber bundles to obtain the technical fiber used in textile products [18]. In North Africa, the esparto grass constitutes an essential element of fight against the turning into the desert and is an essential factor in the maintenance of balance in pastoral areas, due to well-developed root system that retains and protects the ground [19].

and serves as a material for paper [20]. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that it can be used as an additive to reinforce concrete [21]. It is also used by cattle breeders as antiparasitic and traditional medicine as antidiabetic [22]. Raw *A. mauritanica* stems (**Figure 3**) were collected from Batna in the east of Algeria during September 2016. The treatment started by purifying all of the Diss stems after removing the yellow and violet limbs. The aerial parts were air dried in shade at room temperature, then washed with water and Javelle water (12°) and then crushed [23]. The proportions of fiber contents were determined by treating stems with soda and sulfuric acids concentrate to obtain lignin, the cellulose obtained by bleaching and KOH treatment, the filtrate obtained is adjusted with acetic acid to obtain hemicelluloses.

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*2.1.1. Taxonomy of A. mauritanica*

**Figure 3.** Raw *Ampelodesma mauritanica* stems.

**Figure 2.** *Ampelodesma mauritanica* plant (Diss).

• Branch: Magnoliophyta

• Reign: Vegetal

• Class: Liliopsida

## **2. Materials and methods**

#### **2.1.** *A. mauritanica* **plant material**

The Diss (*A. mauritanica*) is a very luxuriant plant. It is a large grass widespread in north Mediterranean Africa and the dry regions of south of Greece and Spain growing spontaneously in a wild state (**Figure 2**).

It is a high perennial herb. It blooms between April and June; the leaves are resistant. Growing up to a length of 1 m and 7 mm width, the plant is extremely rough and is used as a braiding Study of Some North African Grasses (*Ampelodesma mauritanica* and... http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.70001 47

**Figure 2.** *Ampelodesma mauritanica* plant (Diss).

It is constituted of stems with a cylindrical shape which have a maximum height of about 1 m. Fiber differentiation is closely related to the vegetative cycle. The fibers are short and wide at the leaf base (basal level) and grow longer and thinner above the leaf [8]. The alfa stem is built of strong, stiff, and light cellulosic fibers which are mostly used in the production of high quality papers and for decoration, cigarettes, and dielectric applications for condensers; the stem is also used traditionally to manufacture ropes and carpets. The more recent information estimated that the esparto covered surface in hectares was approximately 3 million in Algeria [9, 10].

Due to its short fiber length, paper from esparto grass retains its bulk and takes block letters well. The esparto grass seems to prefer the calcareous soil, not very deep and permeable, with texture dominated by high sand rate. The high quantity of cellulose fiber contained in this plant, the flexibility, the smoothness, and the mechanical resistance of its fibers confer to it the very required properties in paper making; qualities recognized for a long time [11]. In addition to their multiple uses, natural fibers have shown many efficient properties such as heaviness, resistance, or flexibility which give them wide range of applications in textile field. In fact, they are recyclable and nature-friendly and nowadays they are exploited in automobile and medical applications. The fiber wastes from esparto grass offer a certain potential of liquid absorption and may be used as an absorbent fiber in hygienic products even in blends with fluff pulp [12]. In recent years, considerable attention has been given to the development and utilization of natural fibers. The main application of these materials as composites has been directed toward the automotive industries [13]. Composite materials were prepared using unsaturated polyester resins reinforced by Alfa fibers. Esparto grass fibers were evaluated for the production of bleached pulp [14]. To propose their application in composite materials, the question of chemical treatment is crucial, a preliminary study of chemical treatments to improve the properties of composite laminates [15]. As a consequence, a profound need exists for a sounder investigation of the morphological modifications produced by a wide range of chemical treatments on esparto fibers. Chemical treatments on esparto fibers increase the number of reaction sites [16], by removing non-structural matter such as hemicelluloses, lignin, and pectin [17]. However, alkaline treatment has been recognized capable of regenerating cellulose by the addition of OH groups, dissolving microscopic pits or cracks on the fibers alkali-treatment with NaOH and bleaching with sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) are applied on the fiber bundles to obtain the technical fiber used in textile products [18]. In North Africa, the esparto grass constitutes an essential element of fight against the turning into the desert and is an essential factor in the maintenance of balance in pastoral

areas, due to well-developed root system that retains and protects the ground [19].

The Diss (*A. mauritanica*) is a very luxuriant plant. It is a large grass widespread in north Mediterranean Africa and the dry regions of south of Greece and Spain growing spontane-

It is a high perennial herb. It blooms between April and June; the leaves are resistant. Growing up to a length of 1 m and 7 mm width, the plant is extremely rough and is used as a braiding

**2. Materials and methods**

46 Grasses - Benefits, Diversities and Functional Roles

**2.1.** *A. mauritanica* **plant material**

ously in a wild state (**Figure 2**).

and serves as a material for paper [20]. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that it can be used as an additive to reinforce concrete [21]. It is also used by cattle breeders as antiparasitic and traditional medicine as antidiabetic [22]. Raw *A. mauritanica* stems (**Figure 3**) were collected from Batna in the east of Algeria during September 2016. The treatment started by purifying all of the Diss stems after removing the yellow and violet limbs. The aerial parts were air dried in shade at room temperature, then washed with water and Javelle water (12°) and then crushed [23]. The proportions of fiber contents were determined by treating stems with soda and sulfuric acids concentrate to obtain lignin, the cellulose obtained by bleaching and KOH treatment, the filtrate obtained is adjusted with acetic acid to obtain hemicelluloses.

**Figure 3.** Raw *Ampelodesma mauritanica* stems.


#### *2.1.2. Pretreatment of A. mauritanica*

The stems of *A. mauritanica* (**Figure 3**) was first rinsed with distilled water to remove dirt on the fiber surface. Washed *A. mauritanica* stems were left to dry at room temperature and finally dried in the oven for 5 h at 60°C. Afterward, they are submerged in 35 g/l salt water for 24 h at 60°C or 12 h to dissolve the waxes, a layer on the surface protects the plant against heat by limiting the evaporation of water.

#### *2.1.3. Chemical characterizations of A. mauritanica*

#### *2.1.3.1. Water and volatile content*

Water and volatile matter correspond to the loss of mass undertaken by the sample after drying in an oven at 100°C until constant weight (for 4 hours), water content and volatile matter (denoted by *w*) is expressed as:

$$\mathcal{W} = \frac{m\_i - m\_2}{m\_i - m\_0} \times 100\tag{1}$$

where *m*<sup>3</sup>

*2.1.4.1. Bleaching*

*2.1.4.2. Extraction of cellulose*

*2.1.5. A. mauritanica spectroscopic analysis*

**Figure 4.** *Ampelodesma mauritanica* after chemical treatment.

tent corresponds to the mass of organic matter.

*2.1.4. Chemical extraction of A. mauritanica with NaOH*

neutralization of pH, the processes were repeated twice.

and washed twice until a white pulp of holocellulose was obtained.

is the weight of the crucible and of the residue after calcination to constant weight

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(g) and the difference of weight between the mass of dry matter and the mass of mineral con-

Ten grams of Diss sample was put in sufficient quantity of water for 2 hours and then the samples were dried after filtration. The sample was put in 1 l of NaOH (2 wt.%) and then put in water bath at 80°C for 2 hours, on filtrate and then washed with distilled water until the

The samples obtained from NaOH extraction (brown color) were bleached using sodium hypochlorite and acid buffer solution (27 g of soda in 50 ml of distilled water and 75 ml of acetic acid completed to 1 l with distilled water). The sample was put in a solution of H<sup>2</sup>

acetic tampon/NaClO (3:1:1). It is processed in a water bath at 80°C for 2 hours, then filtered,

The holocellulose obtained was dissolved in 70 ml of KOH (24 wt.%); the mixture was kept under stirring for 15 hours; then the paste was filtrated and washed until elimination of all KOH with distilled water; second wash was done with diluted acetic acid and then with etha-

Analysis of extracted cellulose fibers by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR) FTIR 8300 Fourier transformed SHIMADZY, allowed us for qualitative analyses to determine the groups func-

tional properties present in the fibers. The results obtained are presented in **Figure 5**.

nol; and finally, the cellulose was obtained dried and then weighed (**Figure 4**).

O2 / 49

where *m0* (g): mass of empty crucible; *m1* (g): mass of crucible and test portion before heating; and *m2* (g): mass (crucible + residue) after heating up to constant weights.

#### *2.1.3.2. Dry matter*

The dry matter is determined from a raw sample, which is introduced into ceramic crucible, then weighed (*m*<sup>0</sup> ) and placed in the oven at 105°C until a constant weight. After cooling in a desiccator, the crucible containing the material dry is weighed (*m*<sup>1</sup> ).

The moisture content is then obtained from the equation below:

$$M\,\%\quad = \,\,\,[\left(m\_0 - m\_1\right)/m\_0] \times 100\tag{2}$$

where *m*<sup>0</sup> = 2 g of Diss sample was placed in the oven at a temperature of 103–105°C for 4 hours. Then, the sample was allowed to cool in a desiccator containing CaCl<sup>2</sup> and the sample obtained was weighed.

#### *2.1.3.3. Mineral content*

Content of mineral substances (including mineral ash) is determined, by calcination of the dry sample at 500°C until constant weight. The calcined residue obtained is weighed.

The content of mineral matter (*Mm*) is expressed by:

$$M\_m = \frac{m\_3 - m\_0}{m\_1 - m\_0} \times 100\tag{3}$$

where *m*<sup>3</sup> is the weight of the crucible and of the residue after calcination to constant weight (g) and the difference of weight between the mass of dry matter and the mass of mineral content corresponds to the mass of organic matter.

#### *2.1.4. Chemical extraction of A. mauritanica with NaOH*

Ten grams of Diss sample was put in sufficient quantity of water for 2 hours and then the samples were dried after filtration. The sample was put in 1 l of NaOH (2 wt.%) and then put in water bath at 80°C for 2 hours, on filtrate and then washed with distilled water until the neutralization of pH, the processes were repeated twice.

#### *2.1.4.1. Bleaching*

• Order: Cyperales • Family: Poaceae

• Genre: Ampelodesma

• Botanical name: *Ampelodesma mauritanica*

The stems of *A. mauritanica* (**Figure 3**) was first rinsed with distilled water to remove dirt on the fiber surface. Washed *A. mauritanica* stems were left to dry at room temperature and finally dried in the oven for 5 h at 60°C. Afterward, they are submerged in 35 g/l salt water for 24 h at 60°C or 12 h to dissolve the waxes, a layer on the surface protects the plant against heat

Water and volatile matter correspond to the loss of mass undertaken by the sample after drying in an oven at 100°C until constant weight (for 4 hours), water content and volatile matter

*m*<sup>1</sup> − *m*<sup>0</sup>

The dry matter is determined from a raw sample, which is introduced into ceramic crucible,

*M* %  = [ (*m*<sup>0</sup> − *m*<sup>1</sup> ) /*m*<sup>0</sup> ]× 100 (2)

Content of mineral substances (including mineral ash) is determined, by calcination of the dry

*m*<sup>1</sup> − *m*<sup>0</sup>

= 2 g of Diss sample was placed in the oven at a temperature of 103–105°C for 4

) and placed in the oven at 105°C until a constant weight. After cooling in a

(g): mass (crucible + residue) after heating up to constant weights.

hours. Then, the sample was allowed to cool in a desiccator containing CaCl<sup>2</sup>

sample at 500°C until constant weight. The calcined residue obtained is weighed.

desiccator, the crucible containing the material dry is weighed (*m*<sup>1</sup>

The moisture content is then obtained from the equation below:

The content of mineral matter (*Mm*) is expressed by:

*Mm* <sup>=</sup> *<sup>m</sup>*<sup>3</sup> \_\_\_\_\_\_ <sup>−</sup> *<sup>m</sup>*<sup>0</sup>

× 100 (1)

(g): mass of crucible and test portion before heating;

).

× 100 (3)

and the sample

*2.1.2. Pretreatment of A. mauritanica*

48 Grasses - Benefits, Diversities and Functional Roles

by limiting the evaporation of water.

*2.1.3.1. Water and volatile content*

(denoted by *w*) is expressed as:

and *m2*

*2.1.3.2. Dry matter*

then weighed (*m*<sup>0</sup>

obtained was weighed.

*2.1.3.3. Mineral content*

where *m*<sup>0</sup>

*2.1.3. Chemical characterizations of A. mauritanica*

*<sup>W</sup>* <sup>=</sup> *<sup>m</sup>*<sup>1</sup> \_\_\_\_\_\_ <sup>−</sup> *<sup>m</sup>*<sup>2</sup>

where *m0* (g): mass of empty crucible; *m1*

The samples obtained from NaOH extraction (brown color) were bleached using sodium hypochlorite and acid buffer solution (27 g of soda in 50 ml of distilled water and 75 ml of acetic acid completed to 1 l with distilled water). The sample was put in a solution of H<sup>2</sup> O2 / acetic tampon/NaClO (3:1:1). It is processed in a water bath at 80°C for 2 hours, then filtered, and washed twice until a white pulp of holocellulose was obtained.

#### *2.1.4.2. Extraction of cellulose*

The holocellulose obtained was dissolved in 70 ml of KOH (24 wt.%); the mixture was kept under stirring for 15 hours; then the paste was filtrated and washed until elimination of all KOH with distilled water; second wash was done with diluted acetic acid and then with ethanol; and finally, the cellulose was obtained dried and then weighed (**Figure 4**).

#### *2.1.5. A. mauritanica spectroscopic analysis*

Analysis of extracted cellulose fibers by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR) FTIR 8300 Fourier transformed SHIMADZY, allowed us for qualitative analyses to determine the groups functional properties present in the fibers. The results obtained are presented in **Figure 5**.

**Figure 4.** *Ampelodesma mauritanica* after chemical treatment.

an electric mill, sieved to a size less than 125 μm. The diffraction was carried out by a Bruker D8 apparatus. The scanning speed is 0.2 s/step. The angle of diffraction was taken between 5

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The monochromatic incident beam is centered on the copper Kα1 line (λ = 1.5418 A). The crystalline structure of plant fiber was studied using X-ray; the alkaline treatment of fibers improved the percentage of crystallization of cellulose in fiber. In order to ensure this, the

> *I* <sup>200</sup> <sup>−</sup> *<sup>I</sup>* \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ non-cr *I* 200

Esparto grass shown in **Figure 7**, is a hardy perennial grass of the grasses family, grows abundantly in dry, sunny locations along the seacoast. It bears gray-green leaves up to 1 m long and when young, provides food for cattle. Once esparto grass is mature, it becomes very tough. Esparto grass is an abundant plant in Algeria and it is used as paper paste with a low added value. The high percentage of cellulose fiber (41, 5 %) in this vegetal, the flexibility, the smoothness and the mechanical resistance of its fibers confer to him properties very required in paper making; qualities recognized since long time the esparto constitute a natural barrier which limits the expansion of the desert. The esparto grass seems to prefer the calcareous soil dominated by high sand rate. Leaf fibers are fibers that run lengthwise through the leaves of most monocotyledonous plants, such as esparto, these fibers, which are also referred to as

The raw material shown in **Figure 8**, having been the subject of our study, comes from the

Plant materials must be clean and free of extraneous substances, including soil and dust particles that may influence analytical results. For analyses of esparto grass, 10 g of finely crushed

(4)

51

crystallization factor was calculated according to the following equation [24]:

hard fibers, are most commonly employed as reinforcing agents in plastics.

*C* = 100 ⋅

**2.2. Esparto grass plant material**

*2.2.1. Pretreatment of esparto grass*

**Figure 7.** Esparto grass (esparto, *Stipa tenacissima* L).

Algerian steppe region.

and 75°.

**Figure 5.** FTIR spectrum of *Ampelodesma mauritanica* fibers.

#### *2.1.6. A. mauritanica X-ray diffraction*

The crystalline structure (crystallinity rate) as a function of the chemical treatment studied by X-ray diffraction shown in **Figure 6**, was carried out on samples mechanically crushed using

**Figure 6.** X-ray diffractogram of raw *Ampelodesma mauritanica* (Diss).

an electric mill, sieved to a size less than 125 μm. The diffraction was carried out by a Bruker D8 apparatus. The scanning speed is 0.2 s/step. The angle of diffraction was taken between 5 and 75°.

The monochromatic incident beam is centered on the copper Kα1 line (λ = 1.5418 A). The crystalline structure of plant fiber was studied using X-ray; the alkaline treatment of fibers improved the percentage of crystallization of cellulose in fiber. In order to ensure this, the crystallization factor was calculated according to the following equation [24]:

$$C = 100 \cdot \frac{I\_{200} - I\_{\text{non-er}}}{I\_{200}} \tag{4}$$

#### **2.2. Esparto grass plant material**

Esparto grass shown in **Figure 7**, is a hardy perennial grass of the grasses family, grows abundantly in dry, sunny locations along the seacoast. It bears gray-green leaves up to 1 m long and when young, provides food for cattle. Once esparto grass is mature, it becomes very tough. Esparto grass is an abundant plant in Algeria and it is used as paper paste with a low added value. The high percentage of cellulose fiber (41, 5 %) in this vegetal, the flexibility, the smoothness and the mechanical resistance of its fibers confer to him properties very required in paper making; qualities recognized since long time the esparto constitute a natural barrier which limits the expansion of the desert. The esparto grass seems to prefer the calcareous soil dominated by high sand rate. Leaf fibers are fibers that run lengthwise through the leaves of most monocotyledonous plants, such as esparto, these fibers, which are also referred to as hard fibers, are most commonly employed as reinforcing agents in plastics.

#### *2.2.1. Pretreatment of esparto grass*

*2.1.6. A. mauritanica X-ray diffraction*

50 Grasses - Benefits, Diversities and Functional Roles

**Figure 5.** FTIR spectrum of *Ampelodesma mauritanica* fibers.

**Figure 6.** X-ray diffractogram of raw *Ampelodesma mauritanica* (Diss).

The crystalline structure (crystallinity rate) as a function of the chemical treatment studied by X-ray diffraction shown in **Figure 6**, was carried out on samples mechanically crushed using The raw material shown in **Figure 8**, having been the subject of our study, comes from the Algerian steppe region.

Plant materials must be clean and free of extraneous substances, including soil and dust particles that may influence analytical results. For analyses of esparto grass, 10 g of finely crushed

**Figure 7.** Esparto grass (esparto, *Stipa tenacissima* L).

*2.2.3. Importance of esparto grass in desert regions*

*2.2.4. Esparto grass extraction procedure*

limiting the evaporation of water.

*2.2.5. Esparto grass plant analysis*

*2.2.6. Esparto grass elemental analysis*

*2.2.7. Esparto grass characterization*

*2.2.8. Esparto grass FTIR analysis*

extracted by KBr pellets.

international scale.

Esparto grass steppe habitats are important because of their ecological protection against desertification and economic (paper pulp manufacturing) interest, both on a national and

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First of all, the stems are being carded mechanically to refine their diameter. Before specific treatments were held, the fiber was first rinsed with distilled water to remove dirt from the fiber surface. Washed esparto fibers were left to dry at room temperature and finally dried in oven for 5 h at 60°C. Afterward, they are submerged in 35 g/l salt water for 24 h at 60°C or 12h at 80°C, to dissolve the waxes, a layer at the surface to protect the plant against heat by

Esparto grass stems are treated with chemical products to degrade and eliminate the two main linking components, lignin and pectin. As the objective is to produce fibers, the hemicellulose does not need to be eliminated because it sticks the cellulosic filaments together to form fibers.

The cellulose was extracted from the esparto grass plant with 400 ml toluene/ethanol mixture **(**2/1, V/V**)** for 6 hours using a Soxhlet apparatus and treated with NaOH (1M) for 8 hours at 25°C [26], after filtration the cellulose was obtained and the filtrate contains the lignin and hemicellulose. This is mainly due to the reduction of lignin that binds the cellulose fibrils together.

The concentration of nutrients in Esparto plant tissues was measured in a plant extract obtained from fresh plant material, the esparto grass samples were washed in distilled water; oven dried at 60°C for 48 h, weighed, and then ground to 0.1 mm before chemical analysis. Elemental analysis was used to determine the organic, mineral and dry matter in the plant.

Fibers extracted from esparto grass was characterized by different analysis methods.

mineral components of esparto grass ashes are shown in **Table 5**.

Elemental analysis was used for analysis of esparto grass for its organic and mineral composition, the results for material composition of esparto grass are summarized in **Table 4** and the

A Perkin-Elmer 500 FT-IR spectrometer was used for infrared spectroscopy analysis of fibers

Alfa fibers are cellulose-based fibers extracted from the esparto grass.

**Figure 8.** Raw esparto grass (esparto, *Stipa tenacissima* L).

plant was prepared approximately with particles of homogeneous size, sifted on sieve n° 24 and n° 27.

#### *2.2.2. Organization and growth of the esparto grass*

Esparto grass prefers the clay and silicic soil with a high rate of calcareous particles (30–40%) and a small percentage of gypsum (~2%) for its development [25]. Esparto tuft grows in a circle. The roots are at the stem's bases generally, they are not very deep. At the armpits of internodes appear the sheets, the buds, and the outlines of the future secondary roots (**Figure 9**), the stem is presented in the form of a thin ribbon, smooth, shining, solid, covered at the base with a hairy sheath.

**Figure 9.** Radicular system of the esparto tuft.

#### *2.2.3. Importance of esparto grass in desert regions*

Esparto grass steppe habitats are important because of their ecological protection against desertification and economic (paper pulp manufacturing) interest, both on a national and international scale.

#### *2.2.4. Esparto grass extraction procedure*

First of all, the stems are being carded mechanically to refine their diameter. Before specific treatments were held, the fiber was first rinsed with distilled water to remove dirt from the fiber surface. Washed esparto fibers were left to dry at room temperature and finally dried in oven for 5 h at 60°C. Afterward, they are submerged in 35 g/l salt water for 24 h at 60°C or 12h at 80°C, to dissolve the waxes, a layer at the surface to protect the plant against heat by limiting the evaporation of water.

Esparto grass stems are treated with chemical products to degrade and eliminate the two main linking components, lignin and pectin. As the objective is to produce fibers, the hemicellulose does not need to be eliminated because it sticks the cellulosic filaments together to form fibers. Alfa fibers are cellulose-based fibers extracted from the esparto grass.

The cellulose was extracted from the esparto grass plant with 400 ml toluene/ethanol mixture **(**2/1, V/V**)** for 6 hours using a Soxhlet apparatus and treated with NaOH (1M) for 8 hours at 25°C [26], after filtration the cellulose was obtained and the filtrate contains the lignin and hemicellulose. This is mainly due to the reduction of lignin that binds the cellulose fibrils together.

#### *2.2.5. Esparto grass plant analysis*

plant was prepared approximately with particles of homogeneous size, sifted on sieve n° 24

Esparto grass prefers the clay and silicic soil with a high rate of calcareous particles (30–40%) and a small percentage of gypsum (~2%) for its development [25]. Esparto tuft grows in a circle. The roots are at the stem's bases generally, they are not very deep. At the armpits of internodes appear the sheets, the buds, and the outlines of the future secondary roots (**Figure 9**), the stem is presented in the form of a thin ribbon, smooth, shining, solid, covered at the base with a hairy sheath.

and n° 27.

*2.2.2. Organization and growth of the esparto grass*

**Figure 8.** Raw esparto grass (esparto, *Stipa tenacissima* L).

52 Grasses - Benefits, Diversities and Functional Roles

**Figure 9.** Radicular system of the esparto tuft.

The concentration of nutrients in Esparto plant tissues was measured in a plant extract obtained from fresh plant material, the esparto grass samples were washed in distilled water; oven dried at 60°C for 48 h, weighed, and then ground to 0.1 mm before chemical analysis. Elemental analysis was used to determine the organic, mineral and dry matter in the plant.

#### *2.2.6. Esparto grass elemental analysis*

Fibers extracted from esparto grass was characterized by different analysis methods.

#### *2.2.7. Esparto grass characterization*

Elemental analysis was used for analysis of esparto grass for its organic and mineral composition, the results for material composition of esparto grass are summarized in **Table 4** and the mineral components of esparto grass ashes are shown in **Table 5**.

#### *2.2.8. Esparto grass FTIR analysis*

A Perkin-Elmer 500 FT-IR spectrometer was used for infrared spectroscopy analysis of fibers extracted by KBr pellets.

#### *2.2.9. Esparto grass thermal analysis*

Thermal analysis (thermal gravimetric analysis [TGA] and differential scanning calorimetry [DSC]) was done for esparto grass fiber samples using Mettler TA TC 11 thermal analyzer.

## *2.2.10. Esparto grass X-ray diffraction (XRD)*

A PW 1830 diffract meter was used to obtain the diffractogram of esparto grass fiber and the crystallinity of fibers was determined.

Chemical composition of *A. mauritanica* plant ash results in its very variable mineral composition. The silica is very much present in the composition of the plant; this is even one of the reasons for which the delignification of this grass is carried out by the alkaline processes.

**%** 72.25 4.50 1.45 3.60 0.70 2.31

**O Na2**

Study of Some North African Grasses (*Ampelodesma mauritanica* and...

In FT-IR spectrum of *A. mauritanica* plant fiber (**Figure 5**), a broad absorption band at 3367.5/cm is mainly due to OH groups in the existing structure of the fibers. We also note the presence of a band at 1137/cm, and a second one at 1600/cm which indicates the existence of single C–O and

**Figure 6** shows a diffractogram of raw *A. mauritanica* (Diss) fibers, in which one can observe that *A. mauritanica* fibers extracted via the physical-chemical process have a very similar diffraction pattern. Crystalline peak appears at I (200) corresponding to the intensity diffracted at 2θ = 22.7°. It is understandable that the cellulose content increases, whereas the amorphous hemicellulose content decreases during the physical-chemical process. I (AM) corresponds to the intensity diffracted at 2θ = 15.2°, crystallinity index of the crude *A. mauritanica* fibers is of the order of 34.27%, it is higher than that of the plant fibers of esparto grass which is 25% [29].

After the extraction and bleaching process of esparto grass, cellulose fiber was obtained

deformation vibration, pic at 2340/cm

**O Fe2**

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**O3**

55

*3.1.3. A. mauritanica FT-IR spectra*

*3.1.4. A. mauritanica X-Ray analysis*

**3.2. Esparto grass plant**

*3.2.1. Esparto grass plant analysis*

**Figure 10.** Cellulose fiber obtained from esparto grass.

(**Figure 10**, **Tables 4** and **5**).

double C═O bonds. At 1392 cm-1 liaison C-H and CH<sup>2</sup>

**Elements SiO2 CaO MgO K2**

**Table 3.** Ashes mineral components of *Ampelodesma mauritanica*.

Indicate the presence of OH acid carboxylic [28].

#### *2.2.11. Esparto grass morphological characteristics*

The dimensions of the fibers, and especially the length, are largely related to the quality of the Pulp [27], a manual method was used using a microscope equipped with an ocular micrometer. The average fiber size characteristics of the sample analyzed are summarized in **Table 6**.

## *2.2.12. Esparto grass scanning electron microscopy (SEM)*

SEM micrographs were taken using Philips XL20 (Philips analytical Inc., the Netherlands). Samples were coated with gold before the examination (cathode dispersion). Fibers obtained from the esparto grass plant composed mainly of cellulose filaments were characterized by SEM.

## **3. Results and Discussion**

#### **3.1.** *A. mauritanica* **plant**

#### *3.1.1. A. mauritanica plant analysis*

After extraction and bleaching of *A. mauritanica* plant, the cellulose fibers were obtained, fibers are better separated from one another, this causes the release of fibers encrusting substances (lignin, hemicellulose, pectin, etc.) and the chemical composition of *A. mauritanica* is shown in **Table 2**. Cellulose is the major component, followed by hemicelluloses and lignin, the smallest components are extractives and ashes.

#### *3.1.2. Mineralogical analysis of ashes after calcination of the A. mauritanica stem*

The mineral analysis (**Table 3**) of dissolved fiber ash was done using Atomic Absorption A.A-6200 SHIMADZU5.


**Table 2.** Percentage of each component of extracted *Ampelodesma mauritanica* stem.


**Table 3.** Ashes mineral components of *Ampelodesma mauritanica*.

Chemical composition of *A. mauritanica* plant ash results in its very variable mineral composition. The silica is very much present in the composition of the plant; this is even one of the reasons for which the delignification of this grass is carried out by the alkaline processes.

#### *3.1.3. A. mauritanica FT-IR spectra*

*2.2.9. Esparto grass thermal analysis*

54 Grasses - Benefits, Diversities and Functional Roles

*2.2.10. Esparto grass X-ray diffraction (XRD)*

*2.2.11. Esparto grass morphological characteristics*

*2.2.12. Esparto grass scanning electron microscopy (SEM)*

crystallinity of fibers was determined.

**3. Results and Discussion**

*3.1.1. A. mauritanica plant analysis*

components are extractives and ashes.

**3.1.** *A. mauritanica* **plant**

6200 SHIMADZU5.

Thermal analysis (thermal gravimetric analysis [TGA] and differential scanning calorimetry [DSC]) was done for esparto grass fiber samples using Mettler TA TC 11 thermal analyzer.

A PW 1830 diffract meter was used to obtain the diffractogram of esparto grass fiber and the

The dimensions of the fibers, and especially the length, are largely related to the quality of the Pulp [27], a manual method was used using a microscope equipped with an ocular micrometer. The average fiber size characteristics of the sample analyzed are summarized in **Table 6**.

SEM micrographs were taken using Philips XL20 (Philips analytical Inc., the Netherlands). Samples were coated with gold before the examination (cathode dispersion). Fibers obtained from the esparto grass plant composed mainly of cellulose filaments were characterized by SEM.

After extraction and bleaching of *A. mauritanica* plant, the cellulose fibers were obtained, fibers are better separated from one another, this causes the release of fibers encrusting substances (lignin, hemicellulose, pectin, etc.) and the chemical composition of *A. mauritanica* is shown in **Table 2**. Cellulose is the major component, followed by hemicelluloses and lignin, the smallest

The mineral analysis (**Table 3**) of dissolved fiber ash was done using Atomic Absorption A.A-

*3.1.2. Mineralogical analysis of ashes after calcination of the A. mauritanica stem*

*Ampelodesma mauritanica* **(Diss) Wt.% for each component**

**Table 2.** Percentage of each component of extracted *Ampelodesma mauritanica* stem.

Cellulose 41.5 Hemicellulose 22 lignin 27.5 Fats and waxes 1.3

In FT-IR spectrum of *A. mauritanica* plant fiber (**Figure 5**), a broad absorption band at 3367.5/cm is mainly due to OH groups in the existing structure of the fibers. We also note the presence of a band at 1137/cm, and a second one at 1600/cm which indicates the existence of single C–O and double C═O bonds. At 1392 cm-1 liaison C-H and CH<sup>2</sup> deformation vibration, pic at 2340/cm Indicate the presence of OH acid carboxylic [28].

#### *3.1.4. A. mauritanica X-Ray analysis*

**Figure 6** shows a diffractogram of raw *A. mauritanica* (Diss) fibers, in which one can observe that *A. mauritanica* fibers extracted via the physical-chemical process have a very similar diffraction pattern. Crystalline peak appears at I (200) corresponding to the intensity diffracted at 2θ = 22.7°. It is understandable that the cellulose content increases, whereas the amorphous hemicellulose content decreases during the physical-chemical process. I (AM) corresponds to the intensity diffracted at 2θ = 15.2°, crystallinity index of the crude *A. mauritanica* fibers is of the order of 34.27%, it is higher than that of the plant fibers of esparto grass which is 25% [29].

#### **3.2. Esparto grass plant**

#### *3.2.1. Esparto grass plant analysis*

After the extraction and bleaching process of esparto grass, cellulose fiber was obtained (**Figure 10**, **Tables 4** and **5**).

**Figure 10.** Cellulose fiber obtained from esparto grass.


stability of esparto grass fibers, thermogravimetric analysis under nitrogen flow was

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O in

57

From esparto TGA curve (**Figure 12**), the weight loss at 70°C is due to the presence of H<sup>2</sup>

that the *decomposition of cellulose* begin at the *temperature* up than 200 °C.

Thermal degradation was studied by differential scanning calorimetry under nitrogen flow (**Figure 13**) and the cellulose shows one big endothermic curve at 80°C; caused by evolution of water entrapped by OH groups present in the cellulosic chains. The measured value indicate

From the X-ray diffractogram of extracted esparto grass fiber (**Figure 14**) the crystalline peak

obtained.

**A. Esparto grass fiber TGA curve**

**B. Esparto grass fiber DSC Curve**

*3.2.4. Esparto grass X-ray analysis*

**Figure 12.** TGA curve of esparto grass fiber.

appears at 22.47°.

the sample and the degradation observed at 350°C.

**Figure 11.** FTIR spectrum of esparto grass fibers with KBr.

**Table 4.** Raw material composition of esparto grass.


Percentages of humidity of Esparto fibers absorption were found to be 67% at 25°C and losses on the ignition was 48.23% at 1100°C.

**Table 5.** Mineral components of esparto grass ashes.

#### *3.2.2. Esparto grass IR spectra*

In esparto fiber FTIR spectrum (**Figure 11**), a broad absorption band at (3274–3500)/cm is mainly due to groups OH in the existing structure of the fibers. We also note the presence of a band at 1050/cm, and a second to 1630/cm which indicates the existence of links C-O single and double C═O. Wave number 920/cm corresponds to the vibrations of -H aliphatic chains.

#### *3.2.3. Esparto grass thermal analysis*

Thermal stabilities and degradation patterns were determined by employing thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). To examine the thermal

**Figure 11.** FTIR spectrum of esparto grass fibers with KBr.

stability of esparto grass fibers, thermogravimetric analysis under nitrogen flow was obtained.

#### **A. Esparto grass fiber TGA curve**

From esparto TGA curve (**Figure 12**), the weight loss at 70°C is due to the presence of H<sup>2</sup> O in the sample and the degradation observed at 350°C.

#### **B. Esparto grass fiber DSC Curve**

Thermal degradation was studied by differential scanning calorimetry under nitrogen flow (**Figure 13**) and the cellulose shows one big endothermic curve at 80°C; caused by evolution of water entrapped by OH groups present in the cellulosic chains. The measured value indicate that the *decomposition of cellulose* begin at the *temperature* up than 200 °C.

#### *3.2.4. Esparto grass X-ray analysis*

*3.2.2. Esparto grass IR spectra*

**Table 5.** Mineral components of esparto grass ashes.

*3.2.3. Esparto grass thermal analysis*

chains.

K2

Na<sup>2</sup>

P2

Fe<sup>2</sup>

at 1100°C.

In esparto fiber FTIR spectrum (**Figure 11**), a broad absorption band at (3274–3500)/cm is mainly due to groups OH in the existing structure of the fibers. We also note the presence of a band at 1050/cm, and a second to 1630/cm which indicates the existence of links C-O single and double C═O. Wave number 920/cm corresponds to the vibrations of -H aliphatic

Percentages of humidity of Esparto fibers absorption were found to be 67% at 25°C and losses on the ignition was 48.23%

**Composition Percentage of dry plant**

Dry matter 94.25 Organic matter 17.78 Mineral matter 1.22 Extracted with ebullient water 4.06 Crude fiber 28.75 Cellulose rate 33.81 Lignin rate 18.2 Ash cotenant 5.75 Silica 2.03 Moisture 12.3

56 Grasses - Benefits, Diversities and Functional Roles

**Table 4.** Raw material composition of esparto grass.

**Element %** SiO2 32.5 CaO 7.25 MgO 2.40

O 1.32

O 0.40

O5 0.60

O3 2.60

Thermal stabilities and degradation patterns were determined by employing thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). To examine the thermal From the X-ray diffractogram of extracted esparto grass fiber (**Figure 14**) the crystalline peak appears at 22.47°.

**Figure 12.** TGA curve of esparto grass fiber.

**Figure 13.** DSC curves of Cellulose Alfa-Alfa.

**Figure 14.** X-ray Diffractograms of esparto grass fiber.

This is understandable as the cellulose content increased, whereas the amorphous hemicellulose content decreased with the physico-chemical process [30]; this is in agreement with the FTIR and chemical analyses.

of esparto grass fiber extracted, demonstrate that fibers are totally separated by chemical

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This study aims to exploit new natural reinforcements for designing green composites. Cellulose fibers were extracted from *A. mauritanica* (Diss) and esparto grass (Halfa) plants for

These materials are renewable, biodegradable, and very ecological. In fact, it requires a very

Technical fibers have higher mechanical properties. However, ultimate fibers have a higher

In this chapter, a method of extraction that gives cellulosic fibers without any damage was investigated; structure of *A. mauritanica* fibers is discontinuous, where cellulosic fibers are

small amount of water to grow and neither insecticides nor pesticides are needed.

To produce ultimate fibers, we must look for an appropriate method of extraction.

treatments.

**4. Conclusion**

cellulosic rate.

being used in different applications.

**Figure 16.** SEM of extracted esparto grass fibers.

**Figure 15.** SEM of esparto grass fibers.

#### *3.2.5. Esparto grass morphological characteristics*

The average fibers sample dimensions analyzed are summarized in **Table 6**.

#### *3.2.6. Esparto grass scanning electron microscopy (SEM)*

The morphology of the esparto grass fibers was investigated by SEM as shown in **Figure 15**. Scanning electron micrographs of Esparto grass fibers and SEM micrographs (**Figure 16**)


**Table 6.** Dimensions of esparto grass fiber.

Study of Some North African Grasses (*Ampelodesma mauritanica* and... http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.70001 59

**Figure 15.** SEM of esparto grass fibers.

**Figure 16.** SEM of extracted esparto grass fibers.

of esparto grass fiber extracted, demonstrate that fibers are totally separated by chemical treatments.

## **4. Conclusion**

This is understandable as the cellulose content increased, whereas the amorphous hemicellulose content decreased with the physico-chemical process [30]; this is in agreement with the

The morphology of the esparto grass fibers was investigated by SEM as shown in **Figure 15**. Scanning electron micrographs of Esparto grass fibers and SEM micrographs (**Figure 16**)

The average fibers sample dimensions analyzed are summarized in **Table 6**.

FTIR and chemical analyses.

*3.2.5. Esparto grass morphological characteristics*

**Figure 14.** X-ray Diffractograms of esparto grass fiber.

**Figure 13.** DSC curves of Cellulose Alfa-Alfa.

58 Grasses - Benefits, Diversities and Functional Roles

*3.2.6. Esparto grass scanning electron microscopy (SEM)*

**Dimensions of esparto fiber mm** Length 1.47 Outside diameter, *D* 0.015

**Table 6.** Dimensions of esparto grass fiber.

This study aims to exploit new natural reinforcements for designing green composites. Cellulose fibers were extracted from *A. mauritanica* (Diss) and esparto grass (Halfa) plants for being used in different applications.

These materials are renewable, biodegradable, and very ecological. In fact, it requires a very small amount of water to grow and neither insecticides nor pesticides are needed.

Technical fibers have higher mechanical properties. However, ultimate fibers have a higher cellulosic rate.

To produce ultimate fibers, we must look for an appropriate method of extraction.

In this chapter, a method of extraction that gives cellulosic fibers without any damage was investigated; structure of *A. mauritanica* fibers is discontinuous, where cellulosic fibers are found in the matrix; this contains pectin, lignin, and hemicellulose. Fibers from esparto grass have a very short length and the structure of esparto grass fibers is discontinuous, where cellulosic fibers are found in the matrix, the obtained fibers are so fine and short. However, they have very interesting features. These fibers are then characterized through several analyses. The process of *A. mauritanica* and esparto grass fibers is simple and results in an excellent quality of fibers.

[9] Brahim SB, Cheikh RB. Influence of fibre orientation and volume fraction on the tensile properties of unidirectional alfa-polyester composite. Composites Science and

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[11] Akechiche O, Messouad B. XИMИЯ PACTИTEЛЬHOГO CЫPЬЯ, 2007, №4.C. 25-30

[13] Silva JLG, Al-Qureshi HA. Mechanics of wetting systems of natural fibres with poly-

[14] Bouiri B, Amrani M. Elemental chlorine-free bleaching halfa pulp. Journal of Industrial

[15] Md M, Mohd M, Ma G, Santulli C. Lady's finger fibres for possible use as a reinforcement in composite Materials. Journal of Biobased Materials and Bioenergy. 2009;**3**(3):286-290

[16] Herrera-Franco P, Valadez-Gonzalez A. A study of the mechanical properties of short natural-Fiber reinforced composites. Composites Part B: Engineering. 2005;**36**(8):597-

[17] John MJ, Anandjiwala RD. Recent developments in chemical modification and characterization of Natural fiber-reinforced composites. Polymer Composites. 2008;**29**(2):187-207

[18] Msahli S, Sakli F, Drean JY. Study of textile potential of fibres extracted from Tunisian

[19] Benaouda Z, Mehdadi Z, Bouchaour I. Influence pédoclimatique sur l'évolution des formations forestières En zone semi-aride (cas de la forêt de Tenira, Ouest algérien). Science

[20] Toudert N. de doctorat. Etude phytochimique et évaluation de quelques activités biologiques de *Ampelodesma mauritanica* [thèse]. Annaba: Université Badji Mokhtar;

[21] Merzoud M, Habita MF. Elaboration of lignocellulosic composite formulated with a local resource: Diss as infill in structures submitted to seismic actions'. Research Journal

[22] Djilani A, Toudert N, Djilani SE, Dicko A. Hypoglycemic activity and antioxidant potential of *Ampelodesma mauritanica* extract. IUP Journal of Biotechnology. 2010; **4**(3) p55-62

[23] Sbiai A. Matériaux composites à matrice époxyde chargée par des fibres de palmier dattier: effet de l'oxydation Au tempo sur les fibres [doctoral dissertation]. Lyon: INSA; 2011

[24] Terinte N, Ibbett R, Schuster KC. Overview on native cellulose and microcrystalline cellulose I structure studied by X-ray diffraction (WAXD): Comparison between measure-

[25] Pouget M. Les relations sol-végétation dans les steppes sud-algéroises. 1980

meric resin. Journal of Materials Processing Technology. 1999;**92**:124-128

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*Agave americana* L. AUTEX Research Journal. 2006;**6**(1):9-13

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2011

This study emphasizes the use of both fibers to different usable products in order to improve its added value.

The use of the natural fiber to prepare composite materials has major advantages like low price, low weight, biodegradable ecological, and renewable.
