Thermal Resistance And Morphological Characterization of Pennisetum Purpureum Fibers Treated With Naoh as A Composite Reinforcement Candidate

Karakterisasi Ketahanan Thermal dan Morfologi Serat Pennisetum Purpureum Dengan Perlakuan Naoh Sebagai Kandidat Penguat Komposit

Abstract

Natural fibers are widely developed as composite reinforcing materials because they are environmentally friendly, lightweight, and have good mechanical potential. One of the natural fibers that has the potential to be used is elephant grass fiber (Pennisetum purpureum) because it has a high cellulose content and abundant availability. However, the content of lignin and hemicellulose on the surface of the fibers can affect the characteristics of the fibers so that alkaline treatment is required. This study aims to analyze the effect of variations in sodium hydroxide (NaOH) concentrations on the thermal characteristics, morphology, and chemical structure of elephant grass fibers. The research method used was an experimental method with 0%, 1%, and 3% NaOH treatment for 2 hours. Characterization was carried out using Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The results showed that alkaline treatment affects the thermal degradation pattern of fibers due to reduced hemicellulose and lignin. SEM observations showed that the fiber surface became rougher and cleaner after NaOH treatment, while FTIR results showed a change in function groups that indicated a reduction in non-cellulose components. The 3% NaOH treatment produced the most significant morphological changes, but began to show indications of damage to the fiber structure. Based on the results of the study, the alkaline treatment of NaOH affects the characteristics of elephant grass fibers so that it has the potential to be used as an environmentally friendly composite reinforcement material.