Extraction and characterization of hardwickia binata fiber

In this work, the fibers were extracted from the plant Hardwickia Binata and investigated in detail. The effect of alkali treatment on the chemical composition, tensile properties, morphological and thermal degradation of Hardwickia Binata fibers was studied. Chemical analysis and FT-IR indicated lowering of amorphous hemicellulose content on alkali treatment. Wide-angle X-ray diffraction studies indicated increase in crystallinity of the fibers on alkali treatment. The tensile strength, modulus and thermal stability of the fiber increased on alkali treatment. Scanning electron micrographs revealed roughening of the surface of the fibers due to the removal of the hemicellulose layer on alkali treatment. Tensile properties of Hardwickia Binata fibers were compared to those of other important natural fibers, and it was indicated as an alternative suitable source for biocomposites.