Comparative Study of Mechanical Properties of Chemically Treated and Untreated Cyrtostachys Renda Fibers. Issue 13 (1st December 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Loganathan, Tamil Moli; Sultan, Mohamed Thariq Hameed; Ahsan, Qumrul; Jawaid, Mohammad; Shah, Ain Umaira Md
• Is Part Of: Journal of natural fibers. Volume 19:Issue 13(2022)
• Page Start: 5940
• Page End: 5955
• Publication Date: 2022-12-01
• Subjects: Cyrtostachys renda -- leaf stalk -- NaOH treatment -- morphology -- mechanical properties; 叶柄 -- NaOH处理 -- 形态学 -- 机械性能; Textile research -- Periodicals; Textile research; Periodicals; 677.005
• DOI: 10.1080/15440478.2021.1902900
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1544-0478

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study aims to investigate the effect of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) treatment on the strength and stiffness of Cyrtostachys renda (CR) leaf stalk fibers, which could potentially serve as reinforcement for polymer composites. Chemical treatment was performed with NaOH concentrations of 1, 3, and 5 wt% at a soaking time of 1 and 2 hours. The tensile strength, interfacial shear strength (IFSS) and the surface morphology of the fibers were investigated. Based on statistical analysis, the concentration of NaOH significantly affected the tensile strength, while both the concentration of NaOH and treatment duration influenced the IFSS. Increases of 130% in tensile strength and of 423% in interfacial shear strength for the fiber treated at NaOH concentration of 3% at 1 hour soaking time were found, as well as an increased crystallinity index by 12% compared to untreated CR fiber. SEM analysis revealed that shrinkage of hollow structure by the NaOH treatment occurred and subsequently fiber get denser. It can be concluded that fiber treatment with 3% NaOH for 1 hour soaking time is ideal to enhance the fiber properties. Therefore, alkali (NaOH) treated CR fiber could be a potential candidate as reinforcement in polymer composite for structural and automotive components.