Dembri, et al (2024) Effect of alkaline treatment on the thermo-physicochemical and mechanical properties of biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More powder/Washingtonia robusta fibers/PLA hybrid biocomposites. Journal of Materials Research and Technology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmrt.2024.12.018

Biocomposites, which combine natural fibers and biochar with a polylactic acid (PLA) matrix, are a promising step towards sustainable materials. This study focuses on the enhancement of Washingtonia robusta (WR) palm fibers through alkaline treatment and their incorporation into PLA-based hybrid biocomposites.

The fibers, sourced from WR palm waste, were treated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at varying concentrations (1%, 2%, 3%) to improve their surface properties. These modifications were validated through scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermal analyses. The results showed that fibers treated with 3% NaOH exhibited improved smoothness and fewer impurities, which enhanced their adhesion to the PLA matrix.

Mechanical testing revealed that biocomposites reinforced with 3% NaOH-treated fibers achieved the highest tensile strength (39.56 MPa) and flexural strength (74.43 MPa). However, the tensile modulus slightly decreased beyond the 2% treatment level. The water absorption behavior of the biocomposites also increased with higher alkaline treatment, attributed to the increased cellulose content of the treated fibers.

This research demonstrates the potential of WR palm waste as a cost-effective and sustainable reinforcement material in biodegradable composites. By refining alkaline treatment methods, the study highlights a pathway to develop environmentally friendly materials for industries ranging from packaging to construction. Future efforts aim to optimize biochar utilization from WR palm waste to further enhance material properties and sustainability.