Vol. 3, Issue 7, Part K (2017)

Abstract

Natural fibers are one of the good alternative sources for replacing synthetic fiber and reinforcing polymer matrices because of their eco-friendly nature. The present study was undertaken to investigate the fibers extract from Wrightia tinctoria (Roxb.) R. Br. (Apocynaceae). seedpod and to analyze their mechanical behavior of the fiber. Physical and mechanical characterizations were carried out on Wrightia tinctoria (Roxb.) R. Br fiber (WTF): fibre strength, elongation, fiber length, fineness, diameter and chemical composition. The microstructure and functional elements of fiber were studied using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy and FTIR spectroscopy for better understands their behavior. Thermal analysis was studied using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The crystallinity indexes (CrI) and crystallite size (CS) of WTF were studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy. The results showed a strong influence of extraction parameters on the characteristics of fibers. The XRD showed the highest degree of crystallinity and the lower moisture content and water absorption. The WTF has no hemicelluloses, as verified by FTIR. Thus the above characteristics confirm that this fibre has wide scope in the field of textiles application.