Effect of chemical treatment on the physical and thermal stabillity of Hibiscus Tiliaceus Bark Fiber (HBF) as reinforcement in composite

Natural fibers, as reinforcing agents in polymer composites, have great potential for development due to their various advantages, such as toughness, strength, and low density. However, low thermal stability is a significant issue in multiple applications of composite materials. This study aims to explores the potential of using natural fibers as reinforcing agents in polymer composites by investigating the effect of different chemical treatments of sodium hydroxide, (3-Aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane, and a combination of both on the thermal stability of Hibiscus Tiliaceus Bark Fiber (HBF). The thermal stability of HBF was evaluated using Scanning Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive X-Ray (SEM-EDX), X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). The investigation results showed that the physical properties and thermal stability were affected by chemical treatments of NaOH Silane. The cellulose decomposition occurred at a temperature range of 340–360 °C, leading to a 68.9528% reduction in the sample weight. These findings were validated by SEM observations and XRF tests, which demonstrated improved fiber surface cleanliness, a 1.01% increase in the O/C ratio, and a 16% increase in silicon minerals.