Effects of Different Chemical Treatments on the Physiochemical Properties of Natural Fiber Extracted from the Bast of Sida acuta (SA Fiber)

Natural fibers have gained the attention of the scientific community in recent decades due to their non-toxicity, biodegradability, sustainability, and economics. Natural fibers are used in a variety of applications due to their tolerability and adaptability with their properties. In the current work, the surface properties are modified with different chemical treatments, The scientific community is eager to explore many alternatives to petrochemical products, and current trends and market survey shows the usage of natural fibers in combination with biopolymers, polymer materials, etc. as an alternative replacement for synthetic fibers. In this study, bast fibers extracted from widely available seasonal Sida acuta plant were selected as the natural fiber for various chemical treatment effects on the surface, and the variation in the properties of SA fiber was studied with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Outputs from the silane treatment recommend the treated fibers could be applied in polymer composites and Packaging applications.