Physico-chemical and Mechanical Properties of Alkali-Treated Red Banana Peduncle Fiber

The aim of this present investigation is to improve the properties of natural fiber from red banana peduncle plant by alkali treatment for the first time. The main objective of this paper was to study the physico-chemical, thermal, and mechanical properties which are chemically modified by alkaline treatment of red banana peduncle fiber (ARBPF), which is used as a reinforcement in the polymer matrix and finally to make an end product for various industrial applications. The result indicates that cellulose content was improved in ARBPF when compared to untreated red banana peduncle fiber which is proved through X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies recording high crystalline index in fibers. The thermal property of ARBPF also exhibiting good thermal stability was observed by thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA), atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis confirmed that the surface of the fiber is rough.

Automated summary

The aim of this study is to enhance the properties of natural fiber from red banana peduncle plant through alkali treatment. The treated fiber showed improved cellulose content, high crystalline index, good thermal stability, and rough surface texture, making it suitable for various industrial applications as a reinforcement material in polymer matrices.