Enhancing the Microstructural Properties of Plantain Pseudo-stem Fibers Through Alkaline Treatment and Microwave-Assisted Drying

This study explores the enhancement of the microstructural properties of plantain pseudo-stem fibers through alkaline treatment under varying treatment durations and microwave-assisted drying. To assess the effects of this modification on the fibers' microstructural properties, a series of analyses, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), were conducted on the fibers. Significant alterations in the crystalline and macromolecular structures were indicated by the XRD study, and the partial elimination of lignin, hemicellulose, and wax was verified by FTIR. TGA analysis demonstrated superior thermal stability post-modification, and SEM images reveal increased surface roughness. Optimized microstructural properties were achieved at 2 hours of treatment time. Nevertheless, prolonged treatment durations led to the degradation of the fibers, highlighting the need for optimized treatment conditions.