2026/01/01 by Fernanda Monique da Silva, Edgley Alves de Oliveira Paula, Fernando Rusch +2 · 1 voice
Materials Science · Agricultural and Biological Sciences · Engineering · #Natural Fiber Reinforced Composites #Bamboo properties and applications #Hygrothermal properties of building materials
paper · doi:10.1590/1517-7076-rmat-2025-0805
openalex publication_date 2026/01/01 · openalex created_date 2026/02/28 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/11
ABSTRACT The search for sustainability has led to the increased use of natural fibers, such as sisal. This study aimed to analyze the physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of sisal fibers from Brazil’s semi-arid region, enhancing their use as reinforcement in biocomposites. Tests were performed on density, diameter, moisture content, water absorption, tensile strength, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The fibers had an average density of 1.15 g/cm3, a maximum tensile strength of 242 MPa, a modulus of elasticity of 5,399 MPa, and a maximum deformation of 0.08 mm/mm. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTG) indicated good thermal stability of the fibers up to approximately 230ºC. The high-water absorption of the fibers highlighted the need for surface treatments to optimize fiber-matrix adhesion. The findings were essential for understanding the properties of sisal grown in northeastern Brazil, highlighting its potential as a reinforcement in biocomposites for developing new biodegradable, environmentally friendly, and high-performance products.