Statistical modelling of myriostachia wightiana stem fibers (MWSFs) tensile properties

Myriostachia wightiana stem fibers (MWSFs), recently identified as a promising natural fiber, offer significant potential to replace conventional fibers due to their excellent performance, resilience to saline environments, and eco-friendly nature. This study experimentally examines the mechanical properties of MWSFs, including diameter, strength, modulus and strain, for fibers extracted using both alkaline and water retting processes. The physical properties were determined using microscopic analysis and ASTM D3379-75 standard. Given the inherent variability in these properties, statistical approaches such as the Griffith and Weibull models were employed to predict tensile characteristics. Specifically, Griffith model focused on predicting strength and Young modulus based on fiber diameter, while two- and three-parameter Weibull models were applied to statistically forecast the fiber’s attributes with a 95% confidence level. The comparative analysis between the statistical predictions and experimental results demonstrated a strong agreement, validating the effectiveness of these modelling techniques. The findings are crucial for accurately estimating the structural response of MWSFs as reinforcement in composite applications.