Extraction and Characterization of Fiber Treatment Inula Viscosa Fibers as Potential Polymer Composite Reinforcement

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the newly discovered cellulosic fiber from the bark of Dittrichia viscosa, or Inula viscosa (IV), and evaluate the effects of permanganate and alkali chemical treatments on the physical properties to improve the interfacial bonding between Inula viscosa reinforced polymer composites. These permanganate and alkali treatments are both efficacious in helping in reducing hydrophilicity and eliminating impurities from the fiber surface, which has been confirmed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR). Permanganate-treated IVFs have shown higher tensile strength and interfacial stress resistance (IFFS) than alkaline IVFs, and untreated IVFs by tensile and droplet tests. The different characteristics were studied and compared with other bark fibers already available. It is estimated that the fiber treatments will enable high-quality IVF-reinforced polymer composites for use in the industry.