Babassu Coconut Fibers: Investigation of Chemical and Surface Properties (Attalea speciosa.)

Abstract

To complement previous results, an analysis of the chemical and morphological properties of babassu fibers (Attalea speciosa Mart. ex Spreng.) was conducted in order to evaluate their potential as reinforcements in the production of composites with epoxy matrix. The diameter distribution was analyzed in a sample of one hundred fibers, allowing the verification of its variation. The determination of the chemical properties involved experimental analyses of the constituent index and X-ray diffraction. The diffractogram was used to calculate the crystallinity index and the microfibril angle, which are crucial parameters that indicate the consistency of the mechanical properties of babassu fibers and the feasibility of their use in composites. The results revealed that babassu fiber has a chemical composition, with contents of 28.53% lignin, 32.34% hemicellulose, and 37.97% cellulose. In addition, it showed a high crystallinity index of 81.06% and a microfibril angle of 7.67°. These characteristics, together with previous results, indicate that babassu fibers have favorable chemical and morphological properties to be used as reinforcements in composites, highlighting its potential as an important material for applications in technology areas.