Extraction and characterization of banana fibers for its applications in composites for construction

Abstract

Through this project has been studied the optimal method of extraction of the fiber present in the banana leaves for its possible union to other materials such as cement for the formation of a compound intended to the construction sector. The mechanical properties of the fiber have been varied by a treatment with sodium hydroxide at the optimum concentration. These properties have been analyzed by different fiber characterization tests: optical microscopy and SEM, tensile tests, FTIR spectroscopy and ash content. The values obtained in these tests with banana fibers have been compared with those obtained in flax and hemp fibers, in order to evaluate their properties with regard to two very well-known natural fibers