Effect of low-pressure nitrogen afterglow on surface and mechanical properties of agave americana fibers

Low-pressure N₂ afterglow treatment's impact on Agave americana fibers' (AAFs) surface and mechanical properties was investigated. AAFs were exposed to a N₂ microwave afterglow at 100 W during 5 and 15 minutes. Treatment effects were evaluated through surface morphology and mechanical properties. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a roughened surface due to afterglow-induced etching. Mechanical tests demonstrated increased elastic modulus and tensile strength, attributed to surface cleaning and removal of amorphous deposits. X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses supported these findings. This study suggests the potential of low pressure afterglows as a promising approach for AAFs surface activation and improved adhesion in polymer composites. • Agave americana fibers underwent low-pressure afterglow treatment. • Surface roughness due to chemical etching was induced by nitrogen afterglow. • Mechanical properties were improved significantly after afterglow treatment. • N-atoms were the dominant species in the Low-pressure nitrogen afterglow. • Observed fibers changes could be a result interaction with a high N-atoms flux.