Investigation on Physio-chemical and Mechanical Properties of Raw and Alkali-treated Agave americana Fiber

Abstract

This paper aims at introducing new natural fibers for use as fillers in a polymeric matrix enabling production of cost-effective, biodegradable, and lightweight composites for load carrying structures. Agave (Agave americana) leaf fiber, one such kind, is rich in cellulose, relatively inexpensive, and abundantly available. In this study, investigations on extraction of agave leaf fiber are carried out and its physical, chemical, and mechanical properties such as the cross section, length distribution, weight distribution, density, cellulose, hemicellose, lignin, and wax are determined experimentally. Analysis of the tensile force of the fiber, elongation of the fiber, and water absorption of the fiber in load direction and fiber length are also carried out. The effect of alkali treatment on the fiber at varying concentrations, temperature, and holding time are also studied. A scanning electron microscope is used to analyze the morphology of raw and treated fibers.