Characterization of alkaline treatedAreva Javanicafiber and its tribological performance in phenolic friction composites

Areva Javanica (AJ) fiber, extracted from its seed is treated with 3 % alkaline solution with 60 and 75 min soaking time. The alkaline treated Areva Javanica Fibers (AJF) are then characterized for its physicochemical properties. The effect of soaking time on the physicochemical properties of the fiber is studied using chemical composition analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x-ray diffraction (XRD), Thermo-gravimetric Analysis (TGA), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) techniques. Also, the tribological performance of phenolic composite with alkaline treated AJF is studied using Pin-on-Disc tribometer following ASTM G99 standard. It is observed from the study that the cellulose content of the 60 min alkaline treated AJF is found to be higher than 75 min treated AJF. Similarly, the friction and wear performance of the AJF treated for 60 min showed a better performance than 75 min treated one.