Comprehensive analysis of cellulosic bio waste Gmelina arborea bark particulates for its potential in bioactive composite materials

Plant-based filler materials are attractive for their biodegradability, sustainability, and suitability in developing biocomposites. In this study, unexplored biowaste Gmelina arborea bark particulates (GABP) were evaluated for their potential as a filler material in biocomposites. The compatibility of GABP was assessed through chemical, morphological, thermal, UV absorption, and bacterial resistance. The particulates were reduced to an average size of 1.09 μm by ball milling and consisted of 47.5% cellulose, 21.6% hemicellulose, and 24.2% lignin. Morphological analysis revealed irregular surfaces with pits can enhance interfacial adhesion in composite matrices. The thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated thermal stability up to 324 °C, while UV absorption indicated 87.5% UV-blocking efficiency. Additionally, GABP restricts significantly the Streptococcus pyogenes , Streptococcus oralis , Aeromonas hydrophila , and Escherichia coli pathogens at higher concentrations. These findings suggest that GABP is a sustainable filler material for biocomposites, particularly in biomedical and food packaging applications, where UV resistance, thermal stability, and antibacterial properties are essential.