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In this research the fibers were extracted from mulberry plant and treated with various concentrations of alkali solution (NaOH) such as 5, 10, and 15%, and their physical, chemical, mechanical, morphological, and thermal properties were investigated experimentally. Due to alkali treatment, it was observed that the density of mulberry fibers increased while the diameter of fibers reduced. The chemical analyses showed that the cellulose content increased and hemicellulose, lignin, wax, and ash contents were found to be reduced due to alkali treatment. The chemical species present in the fibers were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry. In addition, tensile test showed that 5% alkali-treated fibers exhibited a tensile strength of 605.61 ± 41.34 MPa, tensile modulus of 11.78 ± 1.93 GPa, and strain at break of 4.73 ± 1.06%. The surface texture and thermal properties of raw- and alkali-treated fibers were examined using scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis and differential thermogravimetric analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims at introducing new natural fibers for use as fillers in a polymeric matrix enabling production of cost-effective, biodegradable, and lightweight composites for load carrying structures. Agave (Agave americana) leaf fiber, one such kind, is rich in cellulose, relatively inexpensive, and abundantly available. In this study, investigations on extraction of agave leaf fiber are carried out and its physical, chemical, and mechanical properties such as the cross section, length distribution, weight distribution, density, cellulose, hemicellose, lignin, and wax are determined experimentally. Analysis of the tensile force of the fiber, elongation of the fiber, and water absorption of the fiber in load direction and fiber length are also carried out. The effect of alkali treatment on the fiber at varying concentrations, temperature, and holding time are also studied. A scanning electron microscope is used to analyze the morphology of raw and treated fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]