Properties of White Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) Fibers

The chemical composition, physical (aspect ratio, density and water absorption) and tensile properties are determinant factors of fibers quality, effectiveness and dictate its usefulness in composite applications. Fiber physical and tensile properties of white Hibiscus sabdariffa (H. sabdariffa) fibers modified with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) was aimed to be investigated for effective and quality use in polymer composite applications. The chemical compositions of white H. sabdariffa bast and fibers were analyzed using gravimetric method after retting extraction. Tensile properties, aspect ratio, density, water absorption behaviour using Peleg's model and Power law expression, scanning electron microscope (SEM) with X-Ray energy dispersive microscope (EDS) analysis were determined and studied. NaOH and SLS treatments, respectively, improved the tensile strength and modulus of H. sabdariffa fibers by 282.31 and 182.07 %, and 49.38 and 2448.28 % with increased aspect ratio at reduced density and water absorption. SEM with EDS results corroborate the improvement in tensile properties. The water absorption of H. sabdariffa fibers exhibit less Fickian behaviour. Properties of white H. sabdariffa fibers modified with NaOH and SLS can be used in polymer composite applications.