Effects of derivatization on sponge gourd (Luffa cylindrica) fibres

A derivatization treatment aimed to reduce the hydrophilicbehaviour of sponge gourd (Luffa cylindrica) fibres is described. The effect of the treatment on the chemical composition, surface morphology and thermal stability of the fibres was analysed. FT-IR results show that the polarity of the fibres was reduced, although the acetylation reaction did not go to completion. SEM analysis showed that the surface roughness of the fibres was increased by the treatment due to the removal of the outer surface layer of the fibres, and the thermal analysis showed variations in the fibre thermal behaviour caused by the chemical treatment. In particular, a significant reduction in weight loss was noted in temperatures lower than 100 degrees C, indicating that the fibres became more hydrophobic after treatment.