Modification of Sugarcane Bagasse Fiber: A Comparative Study of Alkali and TEMPO Treatments

Bagasse fiber, a byproduct of the sugarcane industry, has the potential to be a valuable resource in various industrial applications due to its abundance. This study evaluates the effects of 6% NaOH and TEMPO treatments on the structural, mechanical, and thermal properties of sugarcane bagasse fibers. Sugarcane bagasse fibers were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), tensile testing, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). The results indicate that fiber treatment using NaOH significantly increases the Crystalline Index (CI) from 50.95% to 58.38%, while TEMPO oxidation achieves 52.34%. The mechanical testing reveals that tensile stress increases by 85.26 MPa (6% NaOH) and 141.10 MPa (TEMPO), showcasing superior fiber compatibility with TEMPO. FTIR analysis attests to the removal of hemicellulose and lignin, as well as modifications in functional groups, while TGA demonstrates enhanced thermal stability with NaOH-treated fibers showing greater resistance to thermal degradation compared to TEMPO-treated fibers. These findings underscore the potential of chemical treatments to optimize sugarcane bagasse fiber properties for sustainable applications. By optimizing its natural characteristics through targeted chemical modifications, this study provides valuable insights into utilizing bagasse fiber as a renewable alternative, reducing reliance on synthetic fibers and mitigating environmental impacts.