Comparative analysis of physical, morphological, tensile and thermal stability characteristics of raw and alkali treated novel Tinospora cordifolia natural fiber

This research paper presents comparative analysis of morphological, physical, tensile and thermal properties of raw and NaOH treated natural fiber extracted from the stems of Tinospora cordifolia herbaceous vine. Diameter & density measurements, X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, single fiber tensile tests and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were carried out. The diameter reduced and density increased post treatment. SEM images revealed the removal of non-cellulosic contents, finer fibrillation, more clear hexagonal structure and formation of pores & voids post treatment. The Crystalline Index (C.I) and Crystallite Size (C.S) obtained from the XRD spectra enhanced after treatment which is evident from the absence of amorphous shoulders/bumps. FTIR analysis have revealed the removal of constituents such as hemicellulose, lignin and wax. The tensile strength enhanced, Young’s modulus and percent elongation at break reduced post treatment. The thermal stability enhanced; however, the maximum degradation showed a slight reduction.