Thermal Characteristics of Okra Bast and Corn Husk Fibers Extracted via Alkalization

Abstract

In this study, fibers were extracted from okra stems and corn husks via alkalization. The obtained fibers were subjected to physical and thermal analyses. It was found that okra bast fibers have better breaking strength and are finer than corn husk fibers. Corn husk fibers show high elongation at break rates. The paper also presents results of thermogravimetric analysis of the okra bast and corn husk fibers. Tests were carried out in oxygen and inert gas atmospheres. The temperature range of the main thermal decomposition stage was determined in the range of 290–400°C for thermo-oxidation and 290–420°C for pyrolysis investigation. Slight differences in the thermal resistances of the tested fibers were found. The maximum temperature in which both types of materials can used is determined. The calculated activation energy values show large-spread ranges.

Keywords

• 黄秋葵韧皮纤维
• 玉米壳纤维
• 农业剩余纤维
• 热性能
• 机械性能