Physical, Morphological, Structural, Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Pineapple Leaf Fibers

Abstract

Natural fibers have drawn significant attention globally for its adverse effect on the environment, lower cost and superior performance. Leaf or hard fibers are tough plant fibers, extracted from leaves of a monocotyledonous plant which has parallel-veined leaves. Pineapple leaf fibers (PALFs) are usually disposed of with an extremely low value due to lack of adequate skills. With a suitable platform, it can be fully utilized. PALF was found to be very high in cellulose contents which contribute to high strength performance. However, various factors make it perform differently. The changes in density and diameter of PALF had been found closely related to its strength. Apart from this, surface morphology of PALF reviewed that the location of leaf fiber and surface conditions provided various interlocking quality and optimum applications. On the other hand, PALF treatment observed better strength properties with evidence under infrared spectroscopy. The nanofibrils PALF from acid hydrolysis treatment provided better adhesion force and higher crystallinity index but high hydrophilicity verified by high moisture absorptions. Higher crystallinity index provided the fiber a good strength performance and an excellent spinnability, which allows it to be used in yarn and textile industries. On the contrary, high cellulose content of PALF has a promising fire-retardant behavior. PALF has a high potential for advanced material substitutions. Unfortunately, underutilized PALF is only disposed of as landfills and low-cost feedstock. The development and utilization of PALF could be the solution for the disposal problem as well as to increase the national income of a country.