LAUSR

Abstract This study aims to explore the potential of the NaOH-treated Cytostachys renda fibre to be reinforced in the polymeric composites. The NaOH concentrations were prepared as 1, 3, and 5 wt% for soaking time of 1 and 2 h. The treated fibres were characterized in terms of density, chemical composition, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffractometry (XRD), and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The results revealed that the density is improved with an increase in the concentration and soaking time. NaOH treatment has reduced the amorphous hemicellulose and lignin content. On the other hand, the improved crystallinity index by 6% was observed for fibre treated at 3% NaOH for 1 h, along with the enhancement of cellulose content as much as 0.27%. From the FTIR analysis, it was observed that the presence of C H stretching vibration from the ether in the treated fibre for 1 h soaking time would form a strong interaction with the polymeric matrix. The TGA results showed that fibre treated at 3% NaOH for 1 h exhibited the highest thermal stability compared to the untreated and other treated fibres. Therefore, it can be concluded that the fibre treated with 3% of NaOH for 1 h soaking time could act as a potential reinforcement in the polymeric composites for light weight applications.