INFLUENCE OF CHEMICAL TREATMENT ON THEMECHANICAL PROPERTIES AND MORPHOLOGY OF MUSA PARASIDICA FIBER (PLANTAIN)

By substituting various kinds of cellulosic fibers with synthetic ones, it is possible to create composites that are better for the environment. Pinewood, coir, sisal, plantains, abaca, and banana fibers are all suitable sources of material. The strength of adhesion between the matrix polymer and fiber is the most crucial element in finding appropriate fiber reinforcement in composites. Plantain (Musa parasidica) fibers were treated with an alkaline solution at various concentrations for varying soaking times. An Instron testing machine and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) were utilized to determine the effect of this chemical alteration on the mechanical characteristics and surface morphology of the fiber. Following treatment, fibers had an improved surface roughness and reached an optimal tensile strength of 651MPa, according to micrographs taken with a scanning electron microscope.