Surface Modification and Characterization of Raw Pineapple Leaf Fibers (PLF) Using Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) and Graphene Oxide (GO)

The present study revealed the effect of alkali (sodium hydroxide, NaOH) and graphene oxide (GO) treatment on the mechanical and thermal characteristics of the raw pineapple leaf fiber (PLF). This was carried out using different concentrations of NaOH (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% at variable time of 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 h) and GO (0.5 mg/mL, 0.75 mg/ mL, 1 mg/ mL, 1.25 mg/ mL for 30 min) to determine the optimal treatment conditions. The results showed substantial increase in average tensile strength and thermal stability of the fibers post-treatment. Specifically, a 1 mg/ mL concentration of GO exhibited the highest mean strength, enhancing the fiber's structural integrity. Both raw and treated fiber samples were analysed by different characterization techniques. Results of the FTIR, SEM, DSC and TGA analysis confirmed the removal of impurities and the successful addition of NaOH and GO into the fiber matrix. These findings suggest that chemical modification of PLF can yield high-performance materials. This study presents a novel method to improving the characteristics of natural fibers contributing to development of sustainable as well as the efficient composite materials.