Characterization of sisal (Agave sisalana) as natural fiber for Sumbawa traditional weave.

Abstract Kre Alang is a Sumbawa weave used for traditional events in Sumbawa. The high price of genuine kre’ alang has given rise to fake Kre Alang as a competitor. This is a challenge for preserving Sumbawa weaving. One of the factors that cause high prices is the yarn price (synthetic fiber). This research aims to characterize sisal as a natural fiber for kre’ alang. The samples used were untreated sisal (S0), dyed untreated sisal (S0P), alkalinated sisal (S1), dyed alkalinized sisal (S1P), Pakan and Hani (synthetic fiber as a control). Characterization was carried out qualitatively using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). IR spectra show that sisal has -OH stretching, C-H stretching, -OH bending, and C-H 2 rocking bond vibrations. These bonding vibrations belong to the cellulose molecule. Pakan and Hani’s IR spectra are more similar to S1 and S1P. The alkalinization of the sisal dyeing process has increased the absorbance. FTIR results show that alkalinized sisal has the potential to become a natural fiber for kre’ alang. The results of this research are expected to be preliminary data on sisal as a natural fiber for kre’ alang in Sumbawa.