Physical, chemical and thermal analysis of banana flower pistil fiber for the potential application of composite manufacturing

Natural fibers are good substitute for polymer fibers due to its better characteristics like biodegradable, low cost and no harmful release. The purpose of this research is to identify a natural fiber with low cost and good characteristics. Hence, in this research, an attempt has been made to analyze the physical, chemical and thermal properties of banana flower pistil fiber (BPF). The fibers were involved into chemical treatment such as alkali (5%, 7.5% and 10%). The effect of chemical treatment on the properties of fiber was analyzed. Structural properties were analyzed by X- Ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The thermal properties were tested by Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). Further, the water absorption ability of the treated and untreated fiber was investigated. Results showed that the chemically treated fiber (5% alkali) displayed good physical, chemical and thermal properties compared to untreated fiber. Hence, the chemically treated BPF could be useful in the fabrication of bio-composites for industrial applications.