EFFECT OF HEMICELLULOSE CONTENT ON THE PROPERTIES OF BIO-COMPOSITES

Abstract

In this study, hemicellulose was removed from eucalyptus fiber in different percentages. Different concentration of NaOH like 2%, 4%, and 8% (by wt.) was used to vary the content of hemicellulose in the fiber. The fiber was used as reinforcement with PLA as a matrix, to make biocomposite with variation in weight percentage of fibre used in the composite. In the later stage, the mechanical and thermal characterization of the composite was done. The mechanical strength was increased compared to untreated fiber composite for only 2% NaOH treatment. The mechanical strength was further studied with an increase in NaOH % or decrease in hemicellulose content, and the tensile strength decreased. The impact strength also complements the tensile strength. The variation in hemicellulose content reduced the thermal stability of the composite. While the variation of hemicellulose of cellulosic fiber, the agglomeration of fibers increased, which affected the thermal properties of the composite formed with those cellulosic fibres.