Artificial intelligence schemes to predict the mechanical performance of lignocellulosic fibers with unseen data to enhance the reliability of biocomposites

Abstract

Purpose

This work introduces an integrated artificial intelligence schemes to enhance accurately predicting the mechanical properties of cellulosic fibers towards boosting their reliability for more sustainable industries.

Design/methodology/approach

Fuzzy clustering and stacked method approach were utilized to predict the mechanical performance of the fibers. A reference dataset contains comprehensive information regarding mechanical behavior of the lignocellulosic fibers was compiled from previous experimental investigations on mechanical properties for eight different fiber materials. Data encompass three key factors: Density of 0.9–1.6 g/cm³, Diameter of 5.9–1,000 µm, and Microfibrillar angle of 2–49 deg were utilized. Initially, fuzzy clustering technique was utilized for the data. For validating proposed model, ultimate tensile strength and elongation at break were predicted and then examined against unseen new data that had not been used during model development.

Findings

The output results demonstrated remarkably accurate and highly acceptable predictions results. The error analysis for the proposed method was discussed by using statistical criteria. The stacked model proved to be effective in significantly reducing level of uncertainty in predicting the mechanical properties, thereby enhancing model’s reliability and precision. The study demonstrates the robustness and efficacy of the stacked method in accurately estimating mechanical properties of lignocellulosic fibers, making it a valuable tool for material scientists and engineers in various applications.

Originality/value

Cellulosic fibers are essential for biomaterials to enhance developing green sustainable bio-products. However, such fibers have diverse characteristics according to their types, chemical composition and structure causing inconsistent mechanical performance. This work introduces an integrated artificial intelligence schemes to enhance accurately predicting the mechanical properties of cellulosic fibers towards boosting their reliability for more sustainable industries. Fuzzy clustering and stacked method approach were utilized to predict the mechanical performance of the fibers.

Citation

Al-Jarrah, R. and AL-Oqla, F.M. (2024), "Artificial intelligence schemes to predict the mechanical performance of lignocellulosic fibers with unseen data to enhance the reliability of biocomposites", Engineering Computations, Vol. 41 No. 4, pp. 922-946. https://doi.org/10.1108/EC-11-2023-0882