The characterization tensile and thermal properties of hibiscus tiliaceus cellulose fibers

Abstract

In our study, hibiscus tiliaceus (HT) fibers were treated with potassium hydroxide (KOH) 8% for two hours at ambient temperature. The tensile strength and thermal properties of the treated fibers were examined by using tensile test and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The surface structure of the hibiscus tiliaceus fibers were analyzed using Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM). Experimental results revealed that under KOH treatment, the tensile strength increased up to 5144.9 MPa, resistance thermal and cellulose of the fibers become increased; due to hemicellulose content were reduced of the fibers. SEM images show that after alkali, the hibiscus tiliaceus fibers surface becomes clear, fibril and rougher.