Compressive characterization of different chemically treated Borassus flabellifer fruit fibers

Abstract

Abstract In this current work, the Borassus flabellifer (BF) fruit fiber's surface has been modified using a variety of chemical processes in order to enhance the fiber properties. Investigations were done into the morphological, thermal, mechanical, and water absorption properties of BF fibers. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs were used to visualize the effects of the surface alterations made to the BF fibers. These images demonstrate rough texture of the fiber surfaces with tiny holes and grooves as a result of the removal of lignin and hemicellulose from the fiber. To investigate the effects of surface changes on the fiber composition, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy of BF fibers was performed. The enhancement in the crystallinity of the surface‐modified BF fibers is confirmed by the energy‐dispersive x‐ray (EDX) and x‐ray diffraction analyses. The thermogravimetric analysis demonstrates that the surface‐modified fibers exhibit increase in thermal stability as well as the tensile strength. The water absorption test confirms the reduction of the hydrophilic nature of the chemically treated BF fibers. Highlights Benzoyl chloride‐treated BF fiber have shown the best surface modification. Chemically treated BF fibers show better crystallinity, as per XRD, SEM and EDX. Benzolization of BF fiber, increases the hydrophobic nature of the fiber.

Keywords

• Borassus flabellifer fruit fiber
• composite
• FTIR
• SEM
• TGA
• XRD