Characterization of Timoho Fiber as a reinforcement in green composite
Femiana Gapsari, Anindito Purnowidodo, Syarif Hidayatullah, Suteja Suteja
Abstract
Synthetic fiber is more durable than most natural fibers, yet it has non-biodegradable characteristics. Biodegradable fibers such as green composites emerge as a potential substitution for non-biodegradable synthetic fibers since they are more eco-friendly and available. The natural fibers are the engineering outcomes resulting in lightweight products and good mechanical properties. They raise challenges in reinforcing green fibers as composite structures on a massive scale. This study introduces Timoho Fiber (TF) as reinforcement in preparing green composite. TF was treated with varied sodium hydroxide (NaOH) concentrations with equal immersion times. There was color alteration after TF was treated with NaOH; the TF color became brighter. The thermal resistance value was inversely proportional to the thickness value after the alkaline treatment. TF density and thermal endurance increased while TF thickness decreased along with the increase in NaOH concentration. The best crystallinity index and cellulose content were obtained with 9% NaOH. Likewise, untreated TF's tensile strength experienced a significant increase (555.26%) with 9% of alkaline treatment. The FTIR (Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy) test result confirmed that alkaline treatment removed hemicellulose content, impurities, and excessive water absorption. Treated TF's surface became rougher. The etched surface indicated an interlocking with the matrix as displayed in SEM images. The positive treatment effects of NaOH on the TF show the TF's potential as green composites reinforcement to reduce the use of synthetic fibers.