Effect of Chemical Treatment on the Morphology and Mechanical Properties of Plantain (Musa paradisiaca) Fiber

Natural fiber extracted from Plantain (Musa paradisiaca) fibers were treated with alkaline and potassium permanganate (KMnO4) —acetone solution at various concentrations for different soaking time. In order to identify the effect of this chemical modification on the mechanical properties and surface morphology of the fiber, Instron testing machine and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was used. Mechanical properties test results reveals that chemical treatment substantially improve the strength of treated fiber and increase it bulk density. Optimum tensile strength of 690Mpa was obtained after treatment; while Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) micrographs indicate enhance surface roughness of treated fibres. Treated Fibres with 0.05% KMnO4-acetone solution for 3min (05K3) was found to the highest tensile strength, enhance uniform surface roughness, and bulk density.