Effect of Alkali Treatment on the Tensile Behavior and Structure of Betel Nut (<i>Areca catechu</i>) Husk Fiber

Abstract

The tensile properties of untreated and alkali treated betel nut husk fiber were investigated using single fiber tensile test method and the fiber structures were observed using SEM technique. The alkali treatment aids in the removal of lignin, hemicellullose and non-cellulosic components such as wax and pectin on the betel nut husk fiber surface, which yields bigger lumen size and rougher betel nut husk fiber surface. The alkali treatment enhanced the elongation at break of betel nut husk fiber but at the expense of tensile strength and Young's modulus.