Effect of Alkalization on Physical, Chemical, Morphological and Mechanical Properties of Arial Root Ficus Amplissima Fibre

Abstract

Natural fiber’s hydrophilic property leads to reduced bond strength for its incompatibility with the matrix. This problem can be sorted out by treating the surface of the fiber. In this connection, the chemical, physical, thermal, and surface morphological properties of alkali-treated Arial root Ficus Amplissima fiber (ARFAF) have been investigated. By using the TGA, the alkali treatment of ARFAF was optimized, and 5% (w/v) NaOH and 45 min of the soaking period was found to be the best. Optimally treated ARFAF improved the cellulose content from (52.64 wt. %) to (61.67 wt. %) and reduced the hemicellulose from (10.64 wt. %) to (6.22 wt. %), crystallinity index improved from (39%) to (43.33%), tensile strength improved from (250.7 ± 11.26MPa) to (278.4 ± 13.20 MPa), thermal stability improved from (200°C) to (230°C), and it improved the surface topography compared with raw ARFAF.

Keywords

• aerial root ficus amplissima fiber
• alkali treatment
• thermal analysis
• chemical composition analysis
• crystallinity index
• surface morphology